Dóchas responds to new Programme for Government

The new Programme for Government reaffirms Ireland’s commitment to help those furthest behind in the world, but now we need to set an ambitious agenda that will deliver on this in the next five years. 

Dóchas is looking forward to working on these vitally important issues with the new Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Programme for Government document states that the Government will “Continue to increase Official Development Assistance annually, working towards the UN target of 0.7% of Gross National Income.” 

The Government also says it will “deliver on Ireland’s International Climate Finance Roadmap to address climate challenges and prioritise funding for adaptation efforts in countries most vulnerable to climate change, particularly Small Island Developing States.”

Dóchas welcomes this promise. However, we believe Climate Finance should be transformative, and progressively increasing our funding will deliver our fair share to those developing states. 

Commenting on the new Programme for Government, Dóchas CEO Jane-Ann McKenna said:

“The new Programme for Government, and its commitments around 0.7% and Climate Finance are welcome, but as the document states, we are living in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape across the world, which will pose significant threats and challenges. This is particularly the case for those in least developed countries. 

“We look forward to working with the new Government and new Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade on moving forward with an ambitious plan on the world stage based on our core values. We must uphold our principles in the world, develop our positive presence in Africa and reinforce our strong humanitarian leadership within the multilateral systems which has earned us such respect.

“Other initiatives announced, like support for the Loss and Damage fund, increasing the proportion of ODA that is channelled into the education of young people in developing countries, particularly the education of girls, and highlighting forgotten crises such as Sudan, are to be welcomed. It is important for Ireland to use our voice to highlight these issues during the lifetime of this Government, especially during Ireland’s presidency of the EU in 2026.

“Irish people actively support Ireland’s role in standing in solidarity with the most marginalised people around the world. This is evidenced by the nationwide call to action in support of the people of Gaza. We also know that almost one in five households across Ireland donates money to an international humanitarian and development organisation, while 76% of Irish people support giving Overseas Development Assistance. We look forward to working with the Government on an ambitious agenda that matches this public support."