€10m in funding announced for NI reconciliation projects

The Minister for Foreign Affairs has announced funding of almost €10 million for 154 peacebuilding and reconciliation projects across Northern Ireland.

It is the first round of allocations under a new three-year Reconciliation Fund Strategy (2026-2029).

Helen McEntee said the funding was an investment in community organisations that help maintain stability and referenced their role during recent disorder in Belfast, where some groups worked to reduce tensions, support displaced migrant families and keep young people away from violence.

There is also an emphasis on organisations that combat violence against women and girls, with 11 organisations receiving funding for projects addressing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

The minister met representatives of several of the organisations receiving funding in Iveagh House on Tuesday.

"During the recent disorder in Belfast, we saw the vital role that civil society organisations can play in very challenging times," she said in a statement.

"I've seen first-hand the difference these organisations make in communities. Their work often happens quietly, but its impact is lasting, helping to build understanding across divides and ensuring that progress towards reconciliation continues," Ms McEntee added.

The minister also said she was pleased that the funding will support projects tackling violence against women and girls.

"I believe that we must support women affected by abuse if we are to see stronger cohesion in Northern Ireland," she added.

"I have ensured that this new strategy includes specific provisions for these types of projects, along with ones that promote the inclusion and development of women in civic society," Ms McEntee said.

Funding has also been allocated to organisations involved in integrated education, cross-community regeneration, leadership development for women and support for victims of the Omagh bombing.

There is also funding for FactCheck NI, Northern Ireland's dedicated fact-checking organisation, to expand its work tackling misinformation and disinformation.

Ms McEntee said the Department for Foreign Affairs noted that Northern Ireland "is seen as a locus for discontent by certain foreign actors".

Since its creation, the Reconciliation Fund has distributed more than €67 million to over 3,200 projects.

It awards grants to organisations working to build better relations within and between traditions in Northern Ireland, between north and south, and between Ireland and Britain.