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Trócaire today welcomed the increase of €140 million in Official Development Assistance (ODA) announced in the Budget at a time of urgent global humanitarian needs.
An Irish Aid-funded Trócaire distribution of aid to people displaced by conflict in Somalia.
The overseas development agency said ODA is needed now more than ever with 235 million people around the globe expected to need humanitarian assistance and protection this year. That is one in every 33 people worldwide, a significant increase on the 2020 figure of one in 45.
CEO, Caoimhe de Barra, said: “We welcome the increase in ODA announced today. Investment in global humanitarian and development needs is vital. These are extraordinary times for Ireland and the entire world, and despite huge domestic budgetary pressures the Government has to prioritise the needs of the world’s most vulnerable.”
Ms de Barra added: “The harsh reality is that the compounding effects of Covid-19, conflict and climate change have caused enormous suffering for the world’s poorest people. Many countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America lack social safety nets. Hundreds of millions of people work in the informal economy earning as little as €2 a day. The effects of the pandemic and the climate emergency continue to have devastating impacts.”
She said that the climate change and biodiversity emergencies are the biggest threats facing humanity and are contributing massively to humanitarian crises. “We hope that hard decisions are taken by global leaders at the upcoming COP26 Climate Change Summit in Glasgow to address the devastating consequence of climate change.”
“To win a seat on the UN Security Council Ireland campaigned on human rights, climate action, gender equality and humanitarian support. Ireland’s vital work in this role to date has been exemplary. Upholding Ireland’s strong reputation and credibility as a leader on international development also means continued investment in overseas aid.”
Ms de Barra said overseas aid has had a very positive impact over the years lifting millions out of poverty. But more can be done.
“Despite all of the challenges presented by the pandemic, Trócaire – with the support of Irish Aid and the generosity of the Irish public – worked with local partners to help change the lives of 2.7 million people in 25 countries last year, tackling the root causes of poverty, injustice and violence.”
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with Irish Aid and the Government to ensure we continue to reach the furthest behind first and to be on the ground as ambassadors of Ireland’s global solidarity during this exceptional time.”
