Three internationally renowned peace centres in counties Wicklow, Donegal and Antrim have received financial support from the International Fund from Ireland.
The Glencree Centre for Reconciliation in Co. Wicklow; An Teach Bán Centre for Peace Building in Downings, Co. Donegal; and the Corrymeela Community in Ballycastle Co. Antrim have received international plaudits for their innovative work in fostering peace and reconciliation in Ireland.
The fund allocated a grant of €361,000 to An Teach Bán for the expansion of its facilities, as well as €168,000 to Glencree and €186,000 to Corrymeela for programmes to train peace workers and community volunteers.
The announcement followed a meeting today of the Board of the International Fund in Co. Louth, which was attended by representatives of the US, Australian and New Zealand governments, as well as the European Union.
It was the first meeting for the fund's new chairman, Mr Denis Rooney, who has replaced Mr Willie McCarter. "All three of these groups have made a huge contribution to peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland," said Mr Rooney.
Another project to receive fund support at today's meeting was the redevelopment of Butt Hall, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal to a modern three-storey building incorporating offices, meeting rooms, a library and retail outlets for community usage.
The Butt Hall Committee will receive €350,000 to develop the property.
The International Fund for Ireland was set up by the Irish and British governments in 1986 to promote economic and social advance and encourage dialogue and reconciliation between unionists and nationalists.