A Donegal project has received a much-needed injection of €93,531 in cash funding.
The International Fund for Ireland has unveiled a total of €1,489,722 funding against a challenging backdrop to support those delivering much-needed interventions within the community sector.
Nine community-based initiatives across Northern Ireland and the southern border counties have been successful in the latest round of allocations.
And Lifford/Clonleigh Resource Centre and their Finn Valley Men’s Project in Donegal is one of those worthy oprojects.
The project will expand on their current strand of work with marginalised men in the cross- border areas of Donegal and Tyrone and encourage dialogue between different religious communities in these areas.
The absence of a functioning Executive for over two years in Northern Ireland coupled with the uncertainty around Brexit, has had a considerable impact on areas that have yet to realise a direct dividend from the Peace Process.
Reduced public spending and budget constraints are eroding the community confidence that was once in place, heightening tensions and affecting peace building efforts.
Paddy Harte, the new Chairman of the International Fund for Ireland says: “The biggest challenge we are currently facing is uncertainty and the fear of the unknown.
“Tensions are increasing across Northern Ireland and the southern border counties, and some communities are certainly feeling more polarised than ever without those political structures in place.
“Despite the enormous progress that has been made in recent years, the current political impasse and uncertainty surrounding Brexit, along with growing tensions within some communities are all playing directly into the hands of those intent on inciting violence and radicalising young people through paramilitary recruitment.
“It is essential to maintain momentum in peace building across the island of Ireland. The Fund has never shied away from difficult conversations and is the only organisation that can effectively address the challenges surrounding sustainable peace on this island.
“Whilst communities in Northern Ireland may feel frustrated and abandoned by the political process, we are fully committed to delivering stability and opportunity.
“The IFI will continue to engage in marginalised communities and put a sharp focus on improving cross-border relationships in order to address legacy issues and achieve positive and lasting transformation.”
Kathleen Bonner, Project Manager Finn Valley Men’s Project said this funding will allow them to build the project further targeting men living in isolated rural areas of Donegal and Tyrone who haven’t been involved in cross-community activity.
“We’ve had a lot of positive feedback to date on the project through various activities including the much talked about Finn Valley Men’s Choir and the Churches though the Lens Art Exhibition.
“We believe that the positive effect on the mental health of the men involved and that of their families confirms that this work should be continued. We wish to extend our appreciation to the International Fund for Ireland for their recognition of the need for this work and their continued support.”
The funding packages announced are geographically spread across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland, highlighting the need that still exists in local communities for continued support.
The new Chairman took the opportunity to thank the international donors to the Fund – the European Union and the Governments of the United States of America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand – for their support.
Further information about all the beneficiaries from the International Fund for Ireland’s latest funding package is available at the International Fund for Ireland’s website: www.internationalfundforireland.com
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