Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Independent)
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Question 104: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the review of Ireland's international debt policy and the ongoing review of the White Paper on Irish aid will take into account the following matter (details supplied). [9941/12]

Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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The aim of the current Review of the 2006 White Paper on Irish Aid is to examine the changing context for our aid programme, at home and globally, and to learn from what works best in delivering real results for poor people on the ground. The Review will set out clear priorities for the aid programme over the coming years.

I have recently launched a wide consultation process for the Review, involving the public, civil society, our partner countries and the private sector.

I would very much welcome input into the review from members of the Oireachtas. Members can input in writing, by contacting Irish Aid directly or by attending one of the consultations on the review of the White Paper.

The Government's debt policy strategy was prepared jointly by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Finance, and was launched in 2002. In our ongoing review we are surveying the changes in the global situation and the impact to date of debt relief efforts.

Much has already been achieved and Ireland has played a strong role in the development of a consensus on the issue of debt cancellation for the least developed countries. We have contributed our full financial share of over €116m to the two main global initiatives to address debt relief. We have also worked with our partners in our programme countries to help ensure that the additional money from debt relief has been spent on programmes that benefit the poor.

Many of the issues the Deputy has noted, including taxation and responsible lending, will be taken on board in our review of the White Paper. The review process is an important opportunity t o ensure that our development programme builds on its strong reputation for quality and effectiveness in the fight against poverty and hunger.