Highest ever allocation for Ireland’s development programme in Budget 2023 – Minister Brophy
Press release
30 September 2022Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy T.D has welcomed Budget 2023’s allocation of over €1.2 billion for international development – the highest amount ever provided for by the Government.
Minister Brophy said:
“There will be immediate funding of €30 million which will made available this year for the Horn of Africa, a place I visited earlier this month, where I witnessed the devastation being wrought on the lives of people by the combined impact of climate change and conflict."
“It was clear to me that the international community needs to step up its development, humanitarian and climate programmes to address the imminent threat of famine and the massive loss of livelihoods in communities across the region."
“I was determined to ensure that the Irish Government did the right thing and Budget 2023 is a sign of Ireland’s commitment to do just that.”
Budget 2023 allocates over €1.2 billion for international development. This is an increase of 17% on 2022 figures. It is the highest amount ever provided for Ireland’s development programme.
€75 million will be used to address humanitarian and other needs in Ukraine and in other neighbouring countries which are suffering as a result of Russia’s invasion. Irish Aid will also provide an additional €25 million to support Ireland’s international climate finance.
Minister Brophy said:
“Having witnessed the difficulties being faced by people in Turkana and South Sudan by the combined impact of climate change and conflict, the impact of today’s unprecedented allocation cannot be understated."
“This additional funding will further bolster Irish Aid and its partners’ work in the poorest parts of the world. It will strengthen the rights of women and those at the coalface of the devastating climate crisis."
“We as Irish people can be proud of the positive and significant impact of our international development programme. Budget 2023 is an unprecedented commitment to further strengthening that impact and I know how profound that will be.”
ENDS.
Press office
27 September 2022