The International Fund for Ireland (IFI) has allocated £476,469 / €538,410 to further support community projects across Northern Ireland and the southern border counties at a critical time in peace building work.

The projects that will benefit from the funding are Dalaradia Cultural Historical Association in Newtownabbey, the Carson project in Ballymena, Duncairn Community Partnership/Limestone United in north Belfast and the Inishowen Development Partnership in Donegal. These projects provide valuable services in their communities under our Peace Impact Programme and our Personal youth Development Programme.

IFI Chairperson Paddy Harte said; “Peace building in any context is a slow process, but we are committed to supporting and empowering communities. Over the last 35 years, we have achieved a lot by implementing innovative programmes and initiatives aimed at tackling the most difficult issues and reaching out to marginalised communities.

“There is still however much work to be done as we continue to work against an incredibly challenging backdrop of instability where many simply feel that the Peace Process has alienated them and left their communities behind.

“Through our work we believe that continued partnership and collaboration will enable communities to evolve and ultimately create better lives and futures for all. Our work is more important than ever, and we are greatly encouraged by the difference our projects are making at a grass roots level daily.

“Difficult conversations have resulted in the removal of Peace Walls, some which have stood for more than 40 years. In the last year alone, we have diverted more than 3,000 young people away from paramilitary recruitment, with more than 3,200 young people achieving a range of accreditations and a further 528 in further education and training.

“This latest support package of £476,469 / €538,410 will provide much needed support, benefiting communities who need intervention the most. ”

The Chairman also took the opportunity to thank the international donors who contribute to the Fund - the European Union and the Governments of the United States of America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Funding Allocation is as follows: