Tracking foreign aid

THE British government is to be congratulated on establishing an Independent Commission on Aid Impact, which recently unveiled its plan of work.

The commission will track all British aid, combat corruption and ensure value for money.

It is of particular note that the highly-reputed, anti-corruption expert John Githongo was appointed a commissioner.

Mr Githongo, formerly a member of the Kenyan parliament, was a fearless campaigner against corruption in his native land, until forced into exile in London following threats to his life.

Why is our own government so afraid of establishing a similar body to monitor Irish aid?

In Ireland, we have neither commission nor ombudsman.

In effect, the Department of Foreign Affairs is virtually free to do as it wishes with aid, which is hardly an ideal situation.

John O’Shea

GOAL

PO BOX 19

Dun Laoghaire