Power silent on possible overseas aid cuts

The Minister for Overseas Aid, Peter Power, has refused to be drawn on possible cutbacks in funding for aid projects in foreign countries.

Mr Power was asked about the matter at the launch of Ireland Aid's annual report today.

He refused to comment on possible cuts to his department's aid budget next year, but insisted the Government remained committed to its target of giving 0.7% of GDP in overseas aid by 2012.

According to today's report, €140m was spent on helping people affected by humanitarian disasters last year, an increase of 50% on 2006.