“€4 Million for Reconciliation Shows Peace is a Process, Not Just a Destination” – Deputy Cormac Devlin

€4 million announced for 177 projects following the 2025 annual round of the Reconciliation Fund.

Fianna Fáil TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, Cormac Devlin, has welcomed the allocation of €4 million to 177 reconciliation projects under the Department of Foreign Affairs’ annual funding round.

The Reconciliation Fund supports organisations working to deepen understanding between communities across Northern Ireland, and between Ireland and Britain. The newly funded projects span a broad range of sectors, including education, culture, women’s empowerment, youth development, community work, legacy initiatives, policy development, and academic research.

Speaking in Belfast, following a commemoration at City Hall marking the Battle of Somme, Deputy Devlin said:
“This funding is an integral part of building sustained peace in a practical and realistic manner. It reflects a well-thought-out approach to bringing communities together, by supporting organisations that work on the ground every day to strengthen relationships and mutual understanding.”

He continued: “Civil society organisations played a vital role in creating the conditions for peace in Northern Ireland. Their work laid the foundation for dialogue and mutual respect and they remain just as essential today as we strive to protect and build on that peace for the future.”

“The Government’s commitment to reconciliation is not symbolic, it is rooted in real and tangible support.”

“This is about more than funding individual projects; it’s about recognising the long-term work required to maintain and deepen peace. These organisations work tirelessly to promote understanding across communities and traditions, and it is crucial that they are supported to continue this important work.”

The 177 projects will be delivered by organisations based primarily in Northern Ireland, spanning both urban and rural communities. The initiatives aim to foster dialogue, challenge division, promote equality and inclusion, and create opportunities for shared learning and cultural exchange.

Deputy Devlin concluded: “Peace is not a destination, it is a continuous process. This funding is a practical demonstration of our commitment to that process, to reconciliation, and to ensuring that every community can feel part of a peaceful and shared future.”

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