The Tyrone Derry and Donegal Action (TDDA) ‘Integrating Communities Programme’ has been officially launched today in An Grianán Hotel, Burt, Co. Donegal.

The International Fund for Ireland has provided funding in the amount of €122,208.00 for this project which is managed by the Northern Ireland Rural Development Council (RDC).

This project will be delivered in partnership with The Junction and the Old Library Trust, Derry, with TDDA as the lead partner.

The partnership will deliver a project which will challenge attitudes to sectarianism, encourage active civic participation and promote greater community integration within Tyrone, Derry/Londonderry and across the Border in Co. Donegal.

Project Objectives include:

Women Out of Conflict cross-community/cross-border workshops; Future-Scope Forum; ‘Show N Tell’ Events; Storytelling; ‘Fact-finding’ trips, and a series of cross-border / cross-community workshops, one of which will take place at the Launch entitled, ‘The Evolution of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Orange Order.’

Target areas include Derry City Council, Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council areas.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Adrian Johnston, Chairman of the International Fund for Ireland said:

“This project is a fine example of communities working together to build relationships, share common interests and learn about each others backgrounds and culture.  I do not underestimate the hard work involved nor the challenges ahead.  I have no doubt, however, that each group has already shown great commitment for a better future for everyone in the area and great leadership to inspire others to get involved”.

Also speaking at the launch, Mr Albert Allen, Programmes Director with TDDA said,

“This innovative and imaginative partnership project has the potential to deliver long lasting and meaningful co-operation between communities in the North West. In the safe hands of TDDA project staff, with the support of our partners and the goodwill already being shown by all our communities it can only go forward from strength to strength”.

 Click here to download press release