In the wake of multiple humanitarian crises, Irish NGOs meet with the Tánaiste to discuss Ireland’s role in reaching the furthest behind.

“Global Humanitarian needs are at an all-time high, yet funding levels remain desperately insufficient. We urge the Government to use its political and diplomatic weight to address this urgent and significant challenge." - Jane-Ann McKenna

As the death toll from the earthquake in Turkey and Syria passes 46,000 and the number of people on the brink of famine around the world reaches 45 million, Irish NGOs today met with Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin TD, to discuss the devastating impact of multiple humanitarian crises and Ireland’s role in reaching those most in need.

Speaking at the meeting Dóchas CEO, Jane-Ann McKenna, recognised Ireland’s positive role in global development and using our position to influence and encourage other countries to act. She said “We are here to support the implementation of Ireland’s international development policy and we welcome Ireland’s swift action in response to the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.”

“Global Humanitarian needs are at an all-time high, yet funding levels remain desperately insufficient. We urge the Government to use its political and diplomatic weight to address this urgent and significant challenge and in doing so to support human rights, civil society space and progressive policies on the world stage.

Other key areas of discussion included how Ireland is ensuring that those furthest behind – often women, persons with disabilities, or children - are reached through our development programme and how important it will be for Ireland to meet the commitments it has made under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

Discussions also focused on how to support the Irish Government to make Ireland’s commitment to spending 0.7% of GNI on official development assistance (ODA) by 2030 a reality.

Dóchas was joined at the meeting by Action Aid Ireland, Christian Aid Ireland, Concern Worldwide, Frontline Defenders, GOAL, Trócaire, Oxfam Ireland, Misean Cara, Plan International Ireland, Self Help Africa, Sightsavers Ireland, UNICEF Ireland and World Vision Ireland.

Image curtesy of Irish Aid