Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I second the amendment. I welcome the Minister of State to the House. To the surprise, perhaps, of Senator Daly, I want to acknowledge the significant investment up to this point by the Government in overseas aid. It is regrettable we have had a reversal of such investment and that overseas aid has become the Cinderella of the Department of Finance and of the Irish finances. Those of us who advocate social justice and the distribution of wealth equitably need to consider the developing world. Whatever model or methodology we want to follow on how better to develop the world, resources are required and support for the people must be given by those of us in the western world who can afford to contribute. Senator Daly can wax lyrical and cite quotations from different people but the reality is that people in the poorest regions of the world will be affected by our decisions. Whatever principles guide us politically, humanitarian and otherwise, we must always do what is best for all people and all citizens of the world. I passionately believe that. We on this side of the House will advocate and support the creation of efficiencies in how we spend our money in the context of getting value for money and how best to maximise the resources we have at our disposal.

I want to give immense praise to the Irish aid agencies, the missionaries and the NGOs who have worked throughout the world helping people in developing countries, many of whom are friends of mine. I regret never doing that work but I hope before my time is finished in this life that I will go out to the missions and do some work because our citizens who have gone abroad to do this work have made a significant contribution. On this day when the report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse and suffering has been published and other issues will arise regarding the church, it is important that we pay tribute to the many church people who have worked throughout the world as well as the many lay volunteers and the State agencies.

Senator Daly spoke about what Sweden did in this area, but what is his response to the following quotation: "Poverty destroys human potential, increases vulnerability and limits opportunity"? That is a quote from the Taoiseach, Deputy Brian Cowen. The direct cut in aid about which we speak will have consequences. We are talking about 70 cent for every €100 spent. Senator Daly is correct. There is no silver bullet.