Concern expressed for Pakistan’s poor as Trócaire told to leave

Church charity Trócaire are concerned for the “poor and vulnerable” in Pakistan after getting a letter from their government requesting they cease operations in the country.

The letter, which they received earlier this month, asked that Trócaire stop operating in Pakistan within 60 days. It provides an opportunity to re-apply for registration, but only after six months, and gives no reason for the decision.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Our ultimate concern is for the 1.3 million poor and vulnerable people in Pakistan who receive vital care and support from the Irish public.”

They have 19 staff based in the country, 18 of them are locals while one person is from the UK. Seventeen other NGOs received the same letter ordering them to leave the country, some of these include ActionAid, World Vision and the Danish Refugee Council.

Trócaire are liaising with the Department of Foreign Affairs, saying: “The government has provided support, including through the accredited embassy in Ankara and the Irish Aid programme.” They will appeal the decision.

Last year, Trócaire’s work in Pakistan directly benefited more than 120,000 people, as well as indirectly benefitting 1.3 million people, with a country budget of €4.1 million.

They work with 15 local organisations to assist communities in 13 districts across Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas.