Vol. 519 No. 1
38 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has given consideration to the request from some development organisations that Irish NGOs should have their own budget in line with overseas development aid allocations; his response to this request; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13073/00]
NGOs are one valuable means of channelling aid for poverty reduction in line with the overall focus of the Ireland Aid programme. Irish NGOs, including our missionary orders, have a strong tradition and considerable experience of working with the poorest of the poor in developing countries. The Government has recognised, in developing a partnership with NGOs over the years, that NGOs have strengths which can contribute to its overall strategies, particularly their ability to work directly with the poorest of the poor.
The partnership between Ireland Aid and NGOs, therefore, recognises the close contacts which many NGOs have with local communities and the potential this creates for reaching the poor, giving them a voice, and building their capacity to be involved in and to determine their own development. In 1998, for example, a total of £20.7 million or roughly 15% of total ODA was channelled through NGOs.
I believe that, in a situation of increased funding for the overall programme, the role of NGOs in the programme can and should be strengthened. However, I believe that enhanced funding should be combined with a more strategic approach to the way aid is delivered through development programmes co-financed with our NGOs and with increased focus being given to outcomes and impact.
