Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 173: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the Government's spending estimates revealing that it no longer plans to keep its promise to raise overseas aid to 0.7% of GNP by 2007, and in view of the fact that before Budget 2005, several of this Deputy's constituents, with others from around the country, sent cheques to the Taoiseach (details supplied) to make up their share of the difference between the Government's planned spending in 2005 and the amount it would take to allow Ireland to reach 0.7% by 2007, he will acknowledge that he received these cheques; the number of such cheques he received; the Government's plans for the cheques; and if he will make up the rest of the shortfall following the example set by these persons. [2497/05]

Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

During the month of December, the Taoiseach's office received 30 such cheques. Where addresses were supplied, the cheques are being returned. In any event, the cheques are not being cashed. If members of the public wish to make a personal contribution to overseas development, they could donate to one of our international aid agencies who perform such outstanding work. As it would be given to an "eligible charity" under section 848A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, the donation, providing it is more than €250, will qualify for tax relief, therefore benefiting the designated charity further.

The allocation for 2005 provides for an increase of €70 million in Government spending on official development assistance this year. This will bring total Government aid to the developing world to approximately €545 million in 2005. In addition, the Government has agreed to make further increases of €65 million in each of the years 2006 and 2007. As a result of these substantial increases Ireland will spend €1.8 billion on development assistance over the coming three years.

I welcome these increases. The three year multi-annual commitment, incorporating very substantial annual increases, gives my Department a sound basis to carry forward the long-term planning which is so important for development work.

The Government remains strongly committed to achieving the UN target for expenditure on Overseas Development Aid. The issue of how best to meet the target, and in what timeframe, is under ongoing review. In the coming months also, Development Co-operation Ireland will launch a consultative process that will lead to a White Paper on development assistance. All interested stakeholders will be asked for their views.