Preparation of the new PEACE PLUS cross-border programme is being led by the Special EU Programmes Body in close co-operation with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in Ireland and the Department of Finance in Northern Ireland, as sponsor Departments, and with input from other key Departments. The new Programme is at an advanced stage of preparation and public consultation on the draft programme closed on May 12th 2021. Once the draft programme is approved by the Irish Government, Northern Ireland Executive and European Commission, it is anticipated that funding calls, under the PEACE PLUS programme, will commence opening towards the end of the year or early 2022. The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) is making every effort to ensure that the Programme can open as soon as practically possible.
My officials are engaging regularly with the SEUPB and with relevant Departments North and South to ensure that that new PEACE PLUS programme reflects the needs of young people and youth services throughout the country.