Ireland to provide €5.73 Million funding to Global Environment Facility

Mr. Dick Roche, T.D., Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, today (14th December '06) announced that the Government has approved funding of €5.7million for the Global Environment Facility over the next 4 years.

The Global Environment Facility is an independent financial organisation that provides grants to developing countries for projects that benefit the global environment and promote sustainable livelihoods in local communities.

"On the day when Dáil Éireann has approved the investment of a further €20million in Carbon Credits, to support carbon reduction measures in developing nations, this further investment is another tangible demonstration of Ireland's commitment to tackle environmental issues world wide. It also shows how environmental considerations have become much more central to the developed world's approach to oversees development aid generally."

The contribution of €5.73 million will form part of Ireland's overseas aid contributions during the period 2006-2009.

"It is essential that the developing world takes a sustainable approach to their development and does not repeat the mistakes that we made in the past. In turn, it is our duty in the developed world to assist them in this journey to a more sustainable and brighter future," said Minister Roche.

The Global Environment Facility's portfolio of activities is wide ranging: reducing the risk of climate change, conserving and sustainably using biological diversity, protecting the ozone layer, safeguarding international waters, eliminating persistent organic pollutants, and promoting sustainable land management.

Ireland has been a member of the Global Environment Facility since 1994 and to date has contributed some €12.49 million to the fund.

"The Irish people have a genuine sense of global responsibility. Ireland's continued support of the Global Environment Facility will help build the capacity of people, governments, and institutions in developing countries to protect the global environment."

The projects undertaken by the Global Environment Facility not only bring environmental benefits but also help to create livelihoods and opportunities for the poor. "This is a good result for all concerned," concluded Minister Roche.