Transparency International calls on Government to prevent corruption in wake of tsunami disaster

Anti-Corruption organisation Transparency International (Ireland) is calling on Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern and Irish aid agencies to ensure that the recent tragedy in the Indian Ocean is not compounded by corruption.

European governments and donor agencies must take steps to minimize corruption in the aftermath of the disaster. "It is important that donors, regional governments and all other organisations involved are transparent and accountable in both aid delivery and reconstruction." according to John Devitt, acting chief executive of TI Ireland

While there are few reports of corruption in the delivery of aid to the region so far, local aid workers are worried that some of the promised aid will not get to those that need it most. Almost US$4 billion has been pledged to date to help in the aid and reconstruction effort and it is vital that both aid agencies and governments work together to ensure that money is spent wisely according to Mr Devitt.

Local groups in Sri Lanka and Indonesia are concerned that they may be sidelined by government and aid agencies. "The only way to reduce it [corruption] is to urge for civil society participation at all stages." says J.C. Weliamuna, executive director of TI Sri Lanka.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern and the heads of various Irish aid agencies travel to South Asia tomorrow. "This is the perfect opportunity for Mr Ahern and others to make the case for greater local involvement in the aid effort and a transparent reconstruction programme." says Devitt.

TI Ireland offers its sincere sympathies to all the victims and their families.

Contact

John Devitt: 086 1737 487