From:Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, will today appear before the Committee on Development at the European Parliament in Brussels.

Minister Richmond will present Ireland’s Presidency priorities on development cooperation and humanitarian assistance, at the first meeting of the Committee following Ireland assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 July.

Speaking in advance of the Committee, Minister Richmond said:

I am delighted to be here in Brussels today to present Ireland’s EU Presidency priorities on development cooperation and humanitarian assistance. This meeting of the Committee on Development is crucially important during our Presidency.

The global multilateral system is experiencing deep uncertainty at the moment due to the impact of significant budget cuts from partner countries. This uncertainly and volatility is having a hugely negative impact globally.

Rates of HIV/AIDs, TB, and gender based violence are going up. Food insecurity, regional conflict and climate impacts are having a shocking impact on people in the most vulnerable parts of the world, with women and girls being disproportionally affected.

At the committee this week I will be reinforcing that development assistance is not only the right thing to do – but it is also in all of our interests at home.

Development cooperation and humanitarian action are key components of how the EU engages with international partners. Global challenges cannot be solved by countries in isolation, and the collective position of the EU and its Member States as the world’s most significant development and humanitarian actor is more vital than ever.

During our EU Presidency, Ireland’s mission will be very simple – to save international development. We will support strategic discussions on EU development cooperation, in line with our interests and values, keeping poverty eradication at the heart of what we do. This work will include a focus on food, health and gender equality, as well as climate action.

I look forward to continued close cooperation and engagement with the European Parliament throughout our EU Presidency.”