Seanad debates

Wednesday, 26 November 2003

Overseas Development Aid: Motion.

 

I fully respect the views of Members on the other side of the House. This is an issue on which we should develop a united front. While there is no political kudos to be gained from human suffering of this kind, there is a lot of political risk involved. If money is taken out of the Exchequer to fund overseas development aid there will be less money for something else. We are all aware of the risks but luckily our tradition is to give a little to those who are less fortunate. Because of the work Irish people have done, particularly the missionaries and other volunteers who work abroad, there is a lot of goodwill for Ireland. Given the trust in the Irish position, Ireland is often seen as an honest broker or intermediary. If we were to desert people who are expecting help from us, we would not be doing any good for those who are suffering in these countries.

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