Politics
Gov Supports UNICEF Gaza Appeal
Emergency Aid funding is provided by the Manx gov generally through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), but also, as in this case, to respond to ongoing situations
The Cabinet Office approved a £350,000 donation to the UNICEF Gaza Crisis Appeal to support its humanitarian response.
Emergency Aid funding is provided by the Manx gov generally through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), but also, as in this case, to respond to ongoing situations.
Chief Minister Alf Cannan was asked about the gov’s position regarding matters of international concern such as war, conflict and humanitarian aid by Rob Mercer MLC.
He said that as the island is a Crown Dependency and the UK is responsible for its defence and international relations, the gov ‘does not, therefore, formulate or execute what might be termed as foreign policy’.
Mr Cannan said: ‘As a result, the Council of Ministers does not generally take any official public position on world events such as war or conflict that would be inconsistent with the UK Government’s position on such matters.
‘In respect of international sanctions that are imposed because of matters of international concern, the Council of Ministers’ policy is to maintain the Island’s sanctions measures in line with those in the UK.’
Despite this, he said the island does ‘pride itself on being internationally responsible’ which includes sustainability and humanitarian aid.
The Chief added that ‘the Isle of Man Government provides funding to a small number of respected international charities to carry out defined projects split across two themes, Displaced Persons, and Climate Change’.
‘These projects are focused on helping communities or groups affected by political or environmental events and displaced within their own country or globally’, he said.
Mr Cannan continued: ‘In addition, the Isle of Man Government makes donations in the event of specific disaster-related situations to ensure aid is delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible. This Emergency Aid funding is provided generally through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) although it is also provided in response to other appeals as is the case where a donation of £350,000 to the UNICEF Gaza Crisis Appeal to support the humanitarian response was approved by Cabinet Office Board at the end of February and has been paid this week.’
A full list of grants awarded is available on the International Development website.
