Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 564: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether it is appropriate that the State should accept money from an international charity (details supplied) whose funds might more properly be directed to the developing world; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34364/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I am supportive of the partnership approach between the HSE, the Irish Pharmacy Union and the Elton John AIDS Foundation in the provision of needle exchange services in 65 new locations across the country. The Foundation is providing funding over a 3-year period which is being matched by the HSE. The HSE is committed to continuing the programme thereafter. The HSE is committed under action 34 of the National Drug Strategy 2009-2016 to providing needle exchange services where they are required.

The Elton John AIDS Foundation is a leading world wide organisation dedicated to preventing the transmission of the HIV virus. I understand that it supports projects in 55 countries (including the UK and the United States) across Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas. Given that the Foundation funds projects on a wide geographic basis, I do not see anything inappropriate in the Irish health service having accepted its generous offer of support.