Language: English

This tools aims to give Trocaire staff tools which facilitate conflict sensitive programming. 

This report is concerned with deviation of the amount of aid delivered from the amount committed in development programme documents or overall levels of aid pledged in international meetings. Such deviations indicate a lack of predictability in aid flows with damaging consequences for the aid relationship and for the value of aid to its recipients. Ensuring predictable delivery of aid commitments is thus a key element in any aid programme.

As a country, Ireland has a long and proud tradition of international solidarity. The government aid programme is a very important part of this tradition which sets Ireland apart on the global stage. In the current economic climate, it is paramount thatwe do not lose sight of the bigger picture andwork to maintain current aid levels. It is essential thatwe also keep our international responsibilities towards those less fortunate.

Transparent budget processes are critical in democratic societies and citizens have the right to know where and how their resources are being invested. In Mozambique, where nearly half of the budget is financed by external aid, aid transparency becomes an important factor in supporting this democratic process.

Over the past decade since the MDGs were adopted, progress has been made but this has
been uneven across goals and regions. Poverty remains high in sub-Saharan Africa and
parts of Asia. The MDGs can still be achieved but not without real political will, commitment and sufficient financing.