Seán Kenny (Dublin North East, Labour)
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175. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding funding for overseas aid; the way 0.7% of Ireland's gross national income will be allocated to this in the coming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38643/14]

Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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The Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s overseas aid programme, which is at the heart of our foreign policy. Our policy on International Development, “One World, One Future” clearly sets out our vision for a sustainable and just world, together with our goals and areas of focus for the coming years. The policy restates our commitment to achieving the UN target of providing 0.7% of Gross National Product (GNP) for Official Development Assistance (ODA), when economic circumstances permit.

Since coming to office, the Government has successfully managed to stabilise the budget for development assistance. This is a significant achievement, particularly in light of the difficult budgetary circumstances we faced and a clear demonstration of our commitment to the aid programme. In 2011 we provided €657 million to ODA, €629 million in 2012, and €637 million last year. For 2014 we expect to provide in excess of €600 million for ODA. These are substantial allocations of public funds and represent a genuine investment on behalf of the Irish people to assist those less fortunate than ourselves. The estimates process for Budget 2015 is now almost completed. The final allocation to ODA is ultimately a decision for Government, and will be announced by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform on Budget Day next week. As the Deputy can appreciate I am not in position to announce next year’s allocation but, as I have repeatedly stated publicly, and in response to previous Questions, I and the Minster for Foreign Affairs and Trade have been making the strongest case possible for the allocation to the development assistance programme.

I am determined to ensure that Ireland’s aid programme continues to be recognised as a world leader, focusing relentlessly on delivering real and sustainable results that provide lasting improvements to the lives of some the world’s poorest people.