Ministers To Meet With Red Cross President To Discuss Irish Partnership

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan TD, is due to meet with the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Peter Maurer.

At the meeting the Minister will discuss Ireland's partnership with ICRC, one of the world's oldest and most respected humanitarian organisations.

Speaking in advance of the meeting with President Maurer, Minister Flanagan said: "The ICRC is an important humanitarian partner for Ireland. Irish Aid provided €140 million in humanitarian assistance in 2015 and funding in 2016 is likely to match this. This funding is a testament to the effectiveness of the ICRC in operating in some of the most difficult environments in the world. Their ability to continue to deliver aid to the Syrian people living under siege in appalling conditions is an incredible testament to their capacities and dedication.

"The visit of President Maurer will enhance the strong and productive relationship between the Irish Government and the ICRC in the years to come across all of our policy objectives. In particular I look forward to discussions with President Maurer on issues including humanitarian assistance, international humanitarian law and disarmament."

Minister for Diaspora and Overseas Development Aid, Joe McHugh, who will meet with Peter Maurer on Tuesday morning, also said: "We are living through an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe and the ICRC is central to Ireland's response. In addition to core funding, Ireland provided funding through the ICRC which was earmarked for some of the largest crisis today; in Syria, South Sudan and Nigeria. Working with partners like the ICRC enables our funding to reach those most in need as quickly and effectively as possible."

(MH/CD)