Council Celebrates Launch of €8.6million PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan

A total of €8.6million of PEACEPLUS funding has been awarded to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for their PEACEPLUS Co-Designed Local Authority Action Plan. Over the next three years the Action Plan, delivered in partnership with South Eastern Regional College, will focus on three pivotal themes: Local Regeneration and Transformation, Thriving and Peaceful Communities, and Celebrating Cultures and Diversity.

The plan was developed through inclusive engagement with the local community and will result in improved, shared and inclusive local services, facilities and spaces and make a significant and lasting contribution to peace and reconciliation.

This project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The implementation of the Action Plan will be guided by the PEACEPLUS Partnership Board whose membership reflects and represents all interests, areas, communities of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

Junior Minister Aisling Reilly said, “The launch of the Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council PEACEPLUS Action Plan programme marks an important step in helping to deliver improved services and facilities for the local community. This initiative represents the culmination of hard work, dedication, and a vision for a shared and thriving future. It also lays the groundwork for a more inclusive, connected, and resilient region for generations to come. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects make to everyone living there.”

Junior Minister Pam Cameron said, “The launch of the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council PEACEPLUS Action Plan marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the local area and points to a bright future based on partnership, peace and prosperity.

“This programme reflects our shared belief that together we can build a society of respect, opportunity and hope. I extend my thanks to everyone who contributed to this project and look forward to its successful delivery.”

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, said, "I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who helped with the creation of the PEACEPLUS Co-Designed Local Action Plan for Newry Mourne and Down District Council. Recently, funding totalling over €8.6million under the European Union's PEACEPLUS programme was approved for this plan.

I commend Newry Mourne and Down District Council, the PEACEPLUS Partnership, Southeastern Regional College and all Associated Partners for the creation and implementation of this Action Plan. I have no doubt that the 20 regional community relations projects funded by this plan will ensure that all people in the district will live in respectful, safe, and vibrant communities, benefit from prosperous communities, and enjoy good health and wellbeing.

I am delighted that my Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, together with the Special EU Programmes Body and the Executive Office in Northern Ireland, will provide support for this outstanding Action Plan. Long-term benefits from its successful implementation will accrue to the area”.

SEUPB Chief Executive, Gina McIntyre, said, “I wish to congratulate Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and all who took part in the development of the Co-Designed Local Community PEACE Action Plan, which will have a transformative impact by addressing specific needs throughout the area.

“All local authorities within Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland have been allocated a PEACEPLUS budget to undertake a programme of local investment to address local challenges within their areas, working in conjunction with residents and organisations.

“This approach ensures plans are targeted at local level, addressing a range of issues including regeneration, promoting positive relations, and championing diversity.

“These Local Action Plans are not just standalone interventions; they are catalysts for systemic and intergenerational change, fostering new skills, opportunities and partnerships that will resonate long after the plan concludes.”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor Pete Byrne, expressed his enthusiasm for the funding and said, "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to strengthen positive relationships within our community.

“This funding will enable us to introduce a variety of exciting initiatives aimed at reconciliation, addressing prejudice, and fostering diversity. It marks a significant investment for our local community and underscores the EU's continued dedication to peace and reconciliation.

“Reaching this point has required immense dedication and collaboration between the local community, the voluntary sector, the council, and statutory agencies. The Partnership Board appreciates the significant energy everyone involved has contributed to this process.  We eagerly anticipate the positive impact the co-designed PEACEPLUS Action Plan will have on our council area.”

Heather McKee, Deputy Principal of South Eastern Regional College noted: “SERC are delighted to be a delivery partner with Newry Mourne and Down Council as part of the PEACEPLUS Programme for the area. We are dedicated to working in partnership with local communities to develop skills and collectively build upon peace and prosperity across the district.”

The PEACEPLUS Programme is a funding partnership between the European Union, the Governments of the United Kingdom and Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive and will be administered by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). Match-funding for this element of the PEACEPLUS Programme has been provided by the Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government in Ireland.

To keep informed of engagement opportunities and progress please visit www.newrymournedown.org/peaceplus. 

If you need information on the wider PEACEPLUS Programme managed by SEUPB (Special European Union’s Programmes Body), please see their website where detailed information is available: https://seupb.eu/PEACEPLUS