An alliance of peace groups has today called on the Government to include all ministerial departments in cross-border co-operation.
The Irish Peace and Reconciliation Platform (IPRP) launched its first pre-election submission today, urging that a "peace partnership" involving non-governmental organisations, trade unions, employers groups and the churches be created.
It said the process should not be "cocooned" in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Ministerial councils.
"The submission recommends a new focus to complement the solid work that the Government has undertaken in the political and diplomatic spheres," IPRP chief executive Mr Tony Kennedy said.
He said a "new direction" promoting reconciliation among people "on the ground" was required and urged the Department of Foreign Affairs to increase the reconciliation fund from €2.54 million to €10 million.
"It is vital that the ‘people’s dimension’ is taken seriously; currently, the European Union spends more on peace and reconciliation work than the Irish and British governments put together," Mr Kennedy said.
He also said Northern Ireland First Minster Mr David Trimble’s controversial remarks about the Irish Republic was not a reflection of "the reality of life in the Republic" but did "express the genuine feelings of many unionists".