Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 393: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the ongoing progress in the campaign to combat AIDS in Africa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36423/10]

Peter Power (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

AIDS remains a leading cause of death in many developing countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where over 22 million people are infected with HIV. Addressing HIV and AIDS is essential to the reduction of global poverty.

Recent data from the UNAIDS World Report is encouraging in that global HIV prevalence and death rates are now declining. Success in a number of African countries offers hope that, with international support, it will be possible to get ahead of this infection. In Mozambique for example, where Ireland partners effectively with the Clinton Foundation, over 200,000 people are now on HIV treatment, up from less than 2,000 people at the end of 2002.

These gains represent major steps to overcome AIDS. However, for every two persons put on treatment five others become newly infected. There is clearly a need to improve prevention and Ireland is focused on this challenge. For example, we are strong supporters of research into the development of an effective AIDS vaccine. Irish support for actions to combat HIV, AIDS and communicable diseases will continue to prioritise those most affected by the pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa. This year, under the aid programme managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Government will spend approximately €100 million combating HIV and AIDS and communicable diseases. This support clearly illustrates the seriousness of our commitment to tackle HIV and AIDS and communicable diseases, in particular in sub-Saharan Africa where our programme is focussed.