Power calls for global initiative to tackle issues behind world hunger

A GLOBAL initiative to tackle world hunger was called for by Minister of State for Overseas Development Peter Power at the weekend.

Mr Power was speaking at a special meeting convened by US secretary of state Hilary Clinton in New York, attended by more than 100 heads of state and ministers. UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon co-chaired the meeting.

Mr Power stressed the structural problems that caused food insecurity rather than treating the symptoms of hunger.

“Hunger is the result of many failings. Its eradication, and nothing less than its eradication, should satisfy us. This can only be achieved by a comprehensive approach which addresses its structural causes.”

Mr Power said he spoke as a representative of a State that had experienced famine.

“This terrible experience has burned into the Irish consciousness. We feel compelled to speak out and act when we witness one billion hungry people in the world today.”

Climate change, poor agricultural policies and insufficient access to markets were some of the key challenges facing the world.

“We must address the full range of issues that affect hunger and food security,” Mr Power added, “from increasing sustainable agricultural and economic growth to meeting emergency needs and addressing under-nutrition.”