Irish Aid Not Under Threat Claims Minister

Speaking on Tuesday afternoon he said: "Ireland's spending on overseas aid is at its highest level ever. I have just returned from Malawi, where I saw for myself how Irish Aid, working on behalf of the Irish people, is making a lasting difference to the lives of some of the world's poorest communities.

Today, Ireland is one of the most generous donor countries in the world, being at present the sixth largest donor on a per capita basis. This decision reflects the fact that our budget is tied to progress on GNP. I remain confident that we will reach the target set for this year of spending 0.54% of GNP.

The decisions announced today across the Government will help secure the Irish economy and in turn the resources available to Irish Aid in the years ahead. I look forward to working with our aid partners to further enhance the delivery of Ireland's aid in the coming years."

The budget for Irish Aid, Ireland's official programme of overseas development assistance, is based on a percentage of GNP. This year the Government will spend 0.54%, making Ireland one of the most generous donors in the EU.

The Government is committed to reaching the UN target of spending 0.7% of GNP on aid by 2012, three years ahead of the target date set by the EU.

Of the Irish Aid budget approximately 65% is delivered bilaterally through Irish Embassies, and other partners such as non-governmental organisations. One third is through the multilateral system (EU and UN agencies).