Madam, - This year the Government will spend 41 cent in every €100 of Gross National Income on overseas aid - the price of a postage stamp until today. The Taoiseach has repeatedly promised that aid spending will reach 70 cent in every €100 by 2007. We calculate it needs to rise to 48c per €100 in 2004 to keep on track - the price of a stamp from today.
We hope the Government gets the message in time for the spending estimates in the Autumn. - Yours, etc.,
OISÍN COGHLAN, Advocacy Officer, Christian Aid Ireland; CAOIMHE DE BARRA, Advocacy Officer, Trócaire; Clanwilliam Terrace, Dublin 2.