Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, has launched what is being termed a new Strategy for the Reconciliation Fund (2026-29) in Belfast.
The Reconciliation Fund awards, said a Department of Foreign Affairs release, grants to community organisations working to build better relations within and between traditions in Northern Ireland, between North and South, and between Ireland and Britain.
Launching the strategy at an event attended by a wide range of cross-community civil society groups, Minister McEntee said: “During the most difficult days of the Troubles, non-governmental organisations drawn from all sides, and none, worked tirelessly to build connections across communities.
“They provided leadership from the bottom up, played a critical role in making peace possible and continue to be critical in sustaining it. Supporting this work is at the centre of our new Reconciliation Fund Strategy.
“Repairing the hurt of the past, whether the legacy of the violence of the Troubles or the deep divisions that stretch back much further, requires time, dedication and trust. It also requires continued investment.
“The Irish Government is committed to maintaining and increasing that investment. In 2026, the Reconciliation Fund will disburse €8 million to organisations across this island. This is a 15% increase on 2025 and a doubling of funds since 2021.”
Minister McEntee also noted the importance of recognising women’s contributions to peacebuilding: “In this week of International Women’s Day, I am proud that the Reconciliation Fund explicitly recognises the critical and ongoing role of women in peacebuilding. Women’s roles haven’t always received due recognition and respect.
“Amplifying and learning from the voices of women today, who are leading positive change in their communities, will always be a priority for the Irish Government and for me personally”.
