Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

An Gorta Mór - the Great Famine - had a profound impact on Irish life and society which, as I said in my remarks at the National Famine Commemoration in 2022 - “Its indelible marks are still there in our culture, our society, our politics and our place in the wider world."

In 1997, on the 150th anniversary of the Famine, then British Prime Minister Tony Blair issued a statement acknowledging that “[t]hose who governed in London at the time failed their people through standing by while a crop failure turned into a massive human tragedy.”

These words remain significant. That is why the work of the National Famine Commemoration Committee, and our annual memorial day commemorating An Gorta Mór, are so important. These efforts ensure that famine victims and the long legacy of famine will not be forgotten.

We best honour today those who suffered in the past by dedicating ourselves to efforts to prevent food insecurity and famine worldwide. Up to 780 million people in the world today do not have enough to eat.

Ireland is playing a leading role in efforts to fight hunger worldwide. The Government’s international development policy, A Better World, commits to a sustainable food systems approach that builds on our strong track record over decades tackling hunger and fostering sustainable livelihoods. This year, the Irish Aid international development programme will invest €284 million in improving food, agriculture and nutrition for the most vulnerable people. Separately, Ireland’s humanitarian aid, which reached €297 million last year, is focused on the top hunger hotspots globally.

This, coupled with Ireland’s role in international bodies, such as the United Nations, helps ensure those impacted by famine - both today and in the past - are honoured with respect and dignity.