Children of the world putting their hearts and hopes in our hands

AS the growing international economic crisis deepens, it is precisely at this time that we need to look beyond ourselves and beyond our own immediate concerns to think of and reflect on the plight of the world's poor and destitute.

It is easy to become despondent and wonder if we even have enough for our own — charity does begin at home, indeed it does — but it can also reach out to those beyond our shores.

Many of those in greatest need are now facing a double-blow. Charities are predicting huge downturns in expected income this year, with the knock-on effect of reducing services and programmes designed to help the world’s poorest children. The Irish overseas aid budget has already been reduced by 17%, a cut far in excess of any other public spending. On the eve of the Government’s impending budget, we appeal to the Taoiseach and government ministers to protect and ring-fence the Irish overseas aid budget against any further cuts.