Minister Brophy has vital role to play in global Covid-19 recovery

Minister Brophy will have responsibility for Ireland’s overseas aid budget. He takes up the position at a time when Covid-19 continues to spread throughout many of the poorest countries in the world.

Trócaire CEO Caoimhe de Barra said Minister Brophy’s priority must be on protecting and enhancing Ireland’s reputation as a country committed to global solidarity and protecting the rights of the poorest people in the world:

“The Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs plays a vital role in driving Ireland’s engagement with the least developed countries. The Government’s Irish Aid programme is recognised as a global leader in delivering high quality and impactful support to people in these countries. Minister Brophy can ensure Ireland continues to play a leading role on the world stage.

“This appointment comes at a crucial time. Covid-19 continues to spread at an alarming rate around the world, including in many countries lacking the basic healthcare capacity to tackle it. Global solidarity has never been needed more, so we were strongly encouraged by the Programme for Government’s commitment to protecting Ireland’s overseas aid budget. Minister Brophy has a vital role to play in ensuring Ireland continues on its path towards spending 0.7 per cent of national income on supporting the world’s poorest people.

“As Ireland prepares to take its seat on the UN Security Council, we will also have an enhanced role in helping the world respond to the climate crisis and the ongoing tragedy of war in Syria, Yemen and elsewhere. We look forward to working with Minister Brophy on these vital issues.”