Tom Arnold's blog

Small countries are not small-minded

St Patrick’s Day is a time to reflect upon, and be proud of, our role and achievements in working with those less fortunate than ourselves. It is a role that small countries like Ireland play a big part in.

An honour for Concern

I have been elected to an international board aimed at increasing the impact of agricultural research in developing countries. This is an honour for Concern and a reflection of the international recognition of the part played by Ireland in fighting world poverty.

Haiti earthquake

I visited Haiti to oversee emergency operations and offer my support to our staff in Port-au-Prince. Read more

Crucial Copenhagen

Yesterday, I talked on RTE Radio 1 about climate change and the conference in Copenhagen.

Celebrating volunteers

Earlier this month, I attended the Ireland Involved Awards for volunteers in Dublin. Liam Burke was the winner of the International Development Volunteer category for his work with Concern.

Difficulties and decisions

Decision time is at hand: the government will present its budget for 2010 on 9 December, less than two weeks away. They have an unenviable task.

Hungry for leadership

This week, the third World Summit on Food Security was held in Rome with heads of states and governments in attendance.

One of the main aims of the summit was to strengthen

Father Aengus Finucane

On behalf of everyone in Concern, I would like to express my profound sympathy on the death of Father Aengus Finucane. Aengus died at 8.30 this morning.

Why do we care?

The Irish Government made a commitment to spend 0.7% of its national income on overseas aid by 2012. That amounts to just 70 cent in every €100 by 2012.

Ideas for recovery

I recently attended the Global Irish Economic Forum.