APPLICATIONS for what is expected to be the final round of EU 'Peace' funding have now opened.
Two funding calls for Northern Ireland and the Republic, worth over €90 million, have been officially launched under the Peace IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Northern Ireland is expected to lose out on further peace and reconcilation money when British Prime Minister Theresa May triggers Article 50 to begin the process of leaving the European Union.
However, the treasury has said EU projects signed off now will be honoured even if they continue after Brexit.
Almost €53 million will be made available under the ‘shared spaces & services’ branch of the latest peace funding.
The money will create up to eight new 'iconic civic spaces' that can be used by all sections of the community.
Projects previously funded under this banner include the Peace Bridge in Derry, the Girdwood Community Hub in north Belfast and the Peace Link cross-community sports facility in Cavan.
The remaining €37.6 million will be made available for the ‘children & young people’ (aged 14-24) part of the fund.
This will be targeted at young people who are disadvantaged and are at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour, violence or dissident activity.
Matched funding for both of the programmes will be provided by the Stormont and Dublin governments.
Gina McIntyre, chief executive of the SEUPB said: “Both funding calls have the potential to make a long-term and positive change in our society by bringing divided communities together."
For information on how to apply for the funding see www.seupb.eu
