Unaids boss praises Irish Aids fight

The United Nations has praised the role Irish people played in the global fight against Aids.

Unaids executive director Dr Peter Piot said the level of Ireland’s donations made it a role model for other countries.

Dr Piot was speaking during a meeting with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern at a UN summit on Aids in New York.

The diplomat added: “I am deeply appreciative of the role played by Irish people in the fight against this terrible epidemic.”

Ireland recently doubled its core contribution to UNAIDS to €6m.

“This type of support is critical as we work to promote a more long-term, strategic and sustainable response to Aids,” Dr Piot said.

“The prominent position that the response to HIV and Aids has in the overall development policy of Irish Aid, is a model for other donors.”

Mr Ahern returns today from a 48-hour visit to New York where he also held talks with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.