Monaghan County Council and the Monaghan LCDC PEACEPLUS Partnership Board have launched the county’s Co-designed Local Community PEACE Action Plan, with €4,573,046 in funding secured to deliver peacebuilding projects.
The action plan was developed using a local co-designed engagement process. This enabled residents, community, social and voluntary organisations to reflect their challenges, needs and priorities for their local areas, which then formed the basis of the plan.
Monaghan’s Local Community Action Plan is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
This funding will enable the delivery of projects across Monaghan on the PEACEPLUS themes of Community Regeneration and Transformation, Thriving and Peaceful Communities, and Celebrating Cultural Diversity.
4,573 participants will directly benefit from Projects supported by Monaghan’s Action Plan, that will contribute to increased levels of social inclusion, cross-community integration, and incorporate increased levels of sustained contact between those from different communities, cultural and political backgrounds.
The Programme will also further develop sustained cross-border relationships and partnerships with community organisations and public agencies in Northern Ireland.
The Programme will build positive relations locally and make a significant difference within the County in challenging prejudice, promote understanding of diversity and good relations for the creation of a more inclusive society with the benefit of a shared and better future for all.
Projects to be delivered under the Monaghan action plan include the enhancement and development of youth facilities for children and young people, enhancements to community spaces and halls, the redevelopment of a community garden in Mullaghmatt, a community well-being project, and a capacity building and community development programme.
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, commented
“I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who helped develop the PEACEPLUS Co-Designed Local Action Plan for Monaghan County Council. Funding totalling over €4.573 million under the European Union’s PEACEPLUS programme was approved for this plan.
I applaud Monaghan County Council and the PEACEPLUS Partnership for supervising the creation and implementation of this action plan. I have no doubt that the 12 regional community relations projects funded by this plan will address the key barriers to community peace and prosperity. These projects will integrate communities on a cross-community basis and develop relationships which will make a lasting contribution towards peace building.
I am delighted that my Department of Rural and Community Development, together with the Special EU Programmes Body and the Executive Office in Northern Ireland, will provide support for this outstanding action plan. Long-term benefits from its successful implementation will accrue to the area”.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “It’s wonderful to see the launch of Monaghan’s PEACEPLUS Action Plan which will improve facilities for children and young people as well community spaces and halls. The co-design process has brought local people together to decide what was needed to build peace and prosperity across the county. A massive thank you to everyone involved in this process, which will bring real benefits for the local community.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “Monaghan PEACEPLUS Action Plan will be instrumental in building peace and prosperity in the area. More than 4,5000 people will benefit from this multi-million pound plan which will improve shared spaces, build capacity and celebrate all cultures in the area.
“Well done to everyone involved. I have no doubt your commitment to bringing this plan to life will ensure it leaves a lasting legacy for all.”
Chief Executive of SEUPB Gina McIntyre said: “I wish to congratulate Monaghan County Council, the PEACEPLUS Partnership Board and all of those who took part in the consultation process on their Co-Designed Local Community PEACEPLUS Action Plan, which will have a transformative impact by addressing specific needs throughout the area.
“All local authorities within Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland have been allocated a PEACEPLUS budget to undertake a programme of local investment to address local challenges within their areas, working in conjunction with residents and organisations.
“This approach ensures plans are targeted at local level, addressing a range of issues including regeneration, promoting positive relations, and championing diversity.”
Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council Cllr. Paul Gibbons said ““I welcome this funding which will have a huge impact in County Monaghan focussing on areas such as local community regeneration and transformation, thriving and peaceful communities and building respect for all cultures. These themes will guide a range of projects and help to address issues in areas such as health and wellbeing, isolation. social exclusion, community cohesion, capacity building and cultural diversity to name but a few. It will have a huge and lasting impact on thousands of our citizens and our communities, and I am really looking forward to work commencing on these projects”
Outlining the significance of the PEACEPLUS Programme Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council Mr. Robert Burns welcomed the funding. He emphasised the importance of this noteworthy investment, with the creation of new shared spaces and delivery of community engagement programmes making a significant difference to many local communities by promoting positive change and leaving a lasting impact and legacy on all those involved.
He said in conclusion “This plan will implement a range of initiatives to improve the county’s economic, social, cultural and environmental landscape, while fostering unity amongst all of our communities. This unity is essential for creating a sustainable, shared environment and future. Monaghan is committed to embracing a diverse and intercultural future where individuals from all backgrounds feel a true sense of belonging and are empowered to reach their full potential together.”
Gareth McMahon, Director of Service and Chair of the Monaghan PEACEPLUS Partnership said: “I would like to express my thanks to the Partnership Board for their hard work and collaboration in driving the development of the Peaceplus Action Plan. I would also like to express my gratitude for the support and guidance received from SEUPB. I look forward to working with them and all stakeholders on the next exciting phase of implementation of the plan.”