World AIDS Day- Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Earlsfort Centre

Christmas as we know is a special time for children and therefore it is particularly apt that as we mark World AIDS Day that we remember the millions of people worldwide, especially the children, who are affected by the pandemic.

We are all too aware of the terrible statistics- over one thousand children become infected with HIV daily and 2.3 million children are living with HIV worldwide, the majority in sub-Saharan Africa. These Statistics translate into a harsh reality for those affected. An estimated 15 million children have lost one or both parents to AIDS. When children lose their parents, they face a much greater risk of hunger; their education is compromised; the risk of exploitation and abuse is increased. Aids is often the tipping point into poverty and the poorest households may be forced to withdraw children, usually young girls, from school in order to engage in paid work or care of sick relatives.

But there is also a cause for hope.

The lights on the tree also represent 'the communities of light' all around the world who are fighting back. We are all united in a common desire to ensure that the next generation will be AIDS free.

Over the past few days I have had the privilege of meeting some of these individuals like Fr Michael Kelly and Professor Sheila Tlou from Botswana. I know that you are planing to link up with another extraordinary individual, Nelson Mandela, who has done so much to raise awareness of the issues not only in South Africa but throughout the African continent and beyond.

I recently visited Mozambique where I had the privilege of meeting people affected by HIV and AIDS and those engaged in the front line tackling the disease and its impact. It was for me a deeply humbling experience and one which has left a lasting impression and increased my own personal determination to do all I can to ensure that Ireland maintains its leadership in addressing the challenges that HIV and AIDS confronts us with.

I am extremely proud of the role that Ireland is playing in the fight against AIDS on the global stage but also here in Ireland. In particular we are committed to supporting programmes that support children. We are allocating more resources for children affected by HIV and AIDS. Some of this will be allocated to working with children in South Africa.

There has been a long tradition of collaboration, friendship and solidarity between South Africa and Ireland. I will be accompanying the Taoiseach on a visit to South Africa early in the New Year. The visit provides an opportunity to strengthen the partnership between our two countries. It comes at an opportune time as we will have finalised programme of support to South Africa for the coming five years. HIV and AIDS will continue to be a key priority for the Irish Aid programme in South Africa. This will continue to be a key priority for the Irish Aid programme in South Africa. This will comprise support for NGO partners as well as the recently re-established South African National AIDS Council (SANAC).

I am particularly looking forward to having the opportunity to meet with our partners on the ground. I am also looking forward to learning from the South African experience especially in the area of child protection. I understand that South Africa is in the process of introducing a new Children's Bill which is firmly rooted in a rights based framework. This legislation, with a strong emphasis on child participation, is a potential model for other countries, including ourselves here in Ireland.

Finally, I would like to convey my deepest appreciation to the ambassador for organising this event. It marks a fitting point in the celebration of World AIDS Day- one where we look forward to a wime when people affected by HIV and AIDS can look to a brighter future for themselves and for generations to come.

Thank you.