Cowen: Overseas aid must not be cut back

HUNGER and poverty around the world should not be ignored as richer nations come to terms with the global economic crisis, Taoiseach Brian Cowen, said in his message to mark January 1 2009 — the World Day of Peace.

Mr Cowen called for “global solidarity” in tackling poverty which he said is “an obligation” for all wealthier nations even as they face recession.

Mr Cowen said commitments made in the Millennium Developments Goals to end world hunger and poverty by 2015 should not falter in tougher economic circumstances.