Members of the Antrim and Newtownabbey PEACEPLUS Partnership
The Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has officially launched its PEACEPLUS Programme, securing £4.4 million (€5.1m) in funding to promote peace and reconciliation. The announcement was made during a breakfast event held at the Theatre at The Mill on January 30, 2025.
The initiative, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), is part of a broader European Union program aimed at fostering peace in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.
The Antrim and Newtownabbey PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan has been developed through a comprehensive co-design process that began in October 2022, involving numerous community consultations, workshops, and surveys.
A musician from Beyond Skin entertains at the launch of the Antrim and Newtownabbey PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan
Launch of the Antrim and Newtownabbey PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan
Key elements of the plan include:
- Local Community Regeneration and Transformation: Projects aimed at developing shared community spaces, including a new Skate Park in Antrim.
- Thriving and Peaceful Communities: Initiatives to celebrate cultural diversity and heritage, enhancing community connections across various groups.
- Building Respect for All Cultural Identities: Programs focusing on capacity building to empower local communities, promoting inclusivity and participation.
Over the next three years, the plan will engage more than 5,100 residents through nine specific programs designed to address local needs and foster a peaceful, inclusive society.
PEACEPLUS Funders (L-R) Paul Sheridan (SEUPB), Junior Minister Aisling Reilly MLA (TEO), Junior Minister Pam Cameron MLA (TEO) and Gobhnait Swift (Irish Government)
Junior Minister Pam Cameron MLA speaks about the PEACEPLUS Programme
Junior Minister Pam Cameron MLA praised the plan, noting:
"This PEACEPLUS plan is a significant milestone in our journey towards a more peaceful future, reflecting the needs and aspirations of Antrim and Newtownabbey's residents."
Junior Minister Aisling Reilly MLA speaks about the PEACEPLUS Programme
Echoing these sentiments, Junior Minister Aisling Reilly MLA highlighted the unique approach of the co-design process:
"This plan ensures that all voices are heard, leading to benefits for everyone in the borough."
Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary TD also commended the collaborative effort:
"The projects funded by this plan will contribute significantly to peace and reconciliation, creating a lasting positive impact."
Gina McIntyre, SEUPB Chief Executive, emphasised the transformative potential of the plan:
"This action plan will address specific local challenges while promoting positive community relations."
The Mayor and Deputy Mayor with musicians from Beyond Skin
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, expressed his enthusiasm,:
"This funding will leave a lasting legacy of peacebuilding within our borough."
Chairperson of the PEACEPLUS Partnership, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, thanked all involved:
"The positive impact of Peace programmes on our communities is clear, and this funding will make these transformative projects possible."
For further details on the PEACEPLUS Programme and how to get involved, tap here or contact peace@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk.
This latest initiative demonstrates a continued commitment to peace, unity, and development in Antrim and Newtownabbey, with broad support from both local and international stakeholders.