Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 89: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason funding was not provided for Africa Day in Cork when funds have been allocated to this event in other cities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11450/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Africa Day on 25 May is the official day of the African Union and an opportunity to highlight the diversity and potential of the African continent and its people. Through Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Government has supported initiatives in recent years to mark Africa Day in Ireland. The objective is to help build a more positive image of Africa and to promote public awareness of the Irish Aid programme, which is strongly focused on countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

For this year's Africa Day, Irish Aid has prioritised support for music, art, sporting and educational events and family activities which are organised at community level. A call for proposals to mark the occasion was advertised nationally, stating that applications would be assessed on the extent to which they contribute to the educational and awareness-raising objectives set for Irish Aid support. The clarity of proposals, the extent of collaboration with other organisations and value for money were also important considerations. Following a thorough assessment of the applications, twelve initiatives by cultural and community groups and colleges were approved for Irish Aid support.

A large number of applications was received, but on this occasion, the applications from organisations based in Cork were not successful. I look forward to future Irish Aid support for Africa day events in Cork.