Ireland will offer up to €22 million in funding for two United Nations food agencies, the World Food Programme, and the Food and Agriculture Organisation.
The funding, which was announced by Michael Creed, Minister for Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, includes an advance payment in respect of 2019 commitments to the World Food Programme of €19 million.
It is part of a three-year strategic partnership agreement with the World Food Programme (WFP).
“This funding will afford WFP the flexibility to target this funding in the most strategic, efficient and planned manner”, Minister Creed said.
An additional €2.87 million will be provided to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), on top of Ireland’s annual subscription.
This additional funding hopes to promote food security and livelihood resilience among farmers and refugees in crisis regions, as well as projects to support climate-smart agriculture, plant health and protection, and international food safety standards.
Pests & Diseases
“Animal and plant pests and diseases are a huge threat to lives and livelihoods across the world,” Dominique Burgeon, Director, Emergency and Rehabilitation Division, FAO, added.
“Ireland is a critical partner in enabling FAO to support vulnerable communities in preparing for, diagnosing and responding to these threats from fall armyworm and Rift Valley fever. Ireland is also an advocate supporter of livelihoods affected by conflict such as in the Lake Chad basin.”
The funding of these projects “reflects Ireland’s international commitment to improving food security and nutrition, protecting plant and animal health, and action on climate change” Minister Creed concluded.
© 2019 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Aidan O’Sullivan. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
