Government’s disaster donation proves Ireland can lead by example

IN a year of appalling disasters, including the recent earthquake in Asia, the Government’s recent announcement that Ireland would be contributing up to €10 million to the UN’s new central emergency response fund is very welcome news indeed.

While both the public and governments have responded generously to many crises over the years, Oxfam is deeply concerned that some longer-term emergencies, such as that in the Democratic Republic of Congo, have almost been forgotten at an international level.

The Irish Government’s contribution is a real recognition of the enormous unmet needs that still exist, and proves that Ireland can show real leadership in fighting poverty and assisting those most in need.