Government announces aid package for East Timor

The Government tonight announced a special aid package for East Timor to mark that state’s achievement of independence next week.

Liz O’Donnell, who has responsibility for overseas development assistance and human rights, said Ireland’s contribution marked an initial response to the recommendation of a specially-established committee that the aid programme for East Timor should be increased.

She added: ‘‘We now have a chance to make a real contribution to that country as it crosses the threshold of national independence to become the first new state of the 21st century.’’

The package will lead to €1.124m being channelled to East Timor through an international trust fund, with a further €800,000 provided to help fill key posts in the new East Timorese public service.

It was also confirmed tonight that former Minister for Foreign Affairs David Andrews would represent Ireland at the independence ceremonies on May 20.

While a member of Government, Mr Andrews went to the East Timor capital of Dili as a European Unionist special representative three years ago, at the height of the crisis in that country.