Honour the aid pledge and no more excuses

THE Government’s pathetic decision not to meet its 0.7% commitment to alleviate Third World poverty has done us enough harm — but Brian Cowen’s recent confirmation of this, in the wake of positive noises from Tony Blair and pressure from Bob Geldof, makes us look downright mean.

Meanness is not a quality usually associated with the Irish, but if our Celtic Tiger whip-masters can stand over their failure to prevent the preventable deaths of millions, then 'Ireland' and 'mean' will become synonymous for many in the international community.

As a people, our contribution to disaster funds and charities is beyond reproach.

This should be enough to tell our Government that we care greatly for the Third World at least enough to honour the relatively paltry commitment we have made.

It's time for an end to the limp excuses from Messrs Ahern and Cowen; there is no excuse for not paying the 0.7%.

Seamus Lynch

Seaview

Portrane

Co Dublin