Overseas aid package to fall by almost €20m in 2012
The Government has said it is always careful about how it spends tax-payers' money on overseas development, with organisations undergoing strict audits before any aid is passed on.
Next year, Ireland is expected to contribute around €640m, which represents .52% of GNP. The figure is down by almost €20m on what was contributed this year.
As part of an EU target, the Government hopes to lift the figure to .7% of GNP by 2015.
Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs Joe Costello said Concern, Trócaire and GOAL received about €100m of the money.
Another 20% goes to direct alleviation of hunger, and similar amounts into education and health.
