Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 512: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support a matter (details supplied). [13026/10]

Peter Power (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The overarching goal of the Government's aid programme, administered by Irish Aid, is the reduction and eventual eradication of global poverty and hunger. Our partnership with development Non-Governmental Organisations represents a very important element in this effort. Irish Aid provides support directly to NGOs through a number of funding mechanisms.

The fund-raising appeal referred to by the Deputy appears to involve a charity based in Ireland which provides assistance in Pakistan. In general, Irish Aid funding to small organisations is provided through the Civil Society Fund, which supports the work of NGOs in the areas of livelihood and food security, the promotion of human rights, health, education and gender equality and the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Application forms and full details of funding under the Civil Society Fund in 2010, including eligibility criteria, will be made available by mid-April on the Irish Aid website at www.irishaid.ie .