Would the Taoiseach agree that it would be useful in retaining some semblance of coherence in our overseas development aid commitments to return the debate about funding of such to the Estimates for the Department of Foreign Affairs, which he represents this afternoon in a very distinguished way, rather than to the lottery? Would the Taoiseach not agree that the allocations for overseas development aid or bilateral aid projects from the lottery, and this money is welcome, is damaging the continuity and structure of our programmes?

We are having a widening of the scope of this question now.

It is about accountability.

The amount of official aid is provided in the Estimates and the budget but if a particularly harrowing or disastrous situation arises in some part of the world we have access to lottery funding. On the whole I think it would be better——

The total funds quoted include the lottery money so that the real programme is fading out of existence.

I accept that there is some objection to lottery funds being used but on the other hand if you were one of those unfortunate starving persons concerned I do not think you would worry too much where the money comes from.

Absolutely.

I want to deal with another question.

I want to ask a brief question.

I think I have given Deputy Flaherty quite a lot of latitude in this matter.

I want to ask one brief supplementary.

I am now calling for the reply to Question No. 25.