Despite harsh budget cuts, the Irish government will earmark additional, new funding of Euro 23 million in 2010 to help developing countries meet the challenges of climate change.

The proposed contribution represents a substantial part of Ireland’s response to the commitment by developed countries to provide fast-start-finance to assist developing countries in responding
to climate change under international agreements.

Fast-start-finance is funding provided over the short term (2010-12) is only an interim step in the context of the ongoing international negotiations on climate change.

Significantly greater funding will be required in the medium and longer term. The Copenhagen Accord addresses the post-2012 situation with a commitment ‘to a goal of mobilising jointly USD 100 billion a year by 2020 to address the needs of developing countries.’

In advance of the Copenhagen climate change conference in December 2009, Ireland committed to making a contribution of up to Euro 100 million towards a fast-start-finance package to be provided by developed countries over the three-year period 2010-12.

Ireland’s pledge arose out of the European Council meeting in December 2009 where a total EU pledge of Euro 7.2 billion was agreed.

Minister Gormley said: “It goes without saying that Ireland is facing severe economic difficulties, which are impacting on the lives of our people.

“But we also have to remember that climate change is threatening the lives and safety of many through drought, flooding, lower agricultural productivity and more frequent and severe heat waves
and storms.

“Ireland has a proud tradition of giving and assistance. We recognise as a nation that there are others in greater need, and that we have a responsibility in this regard.”

Alison Brown

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