The Reconciliation Fund, which is administered by my Department, was established in 1982 to support civil society organisations in creating better understanding between the people and traditions of the island of Ireland, and also between Ireland and Britain. Over €48 million has been allocated to over 2,000 projects during this time. As part of the 2014 Stormont House Agreement, the Government committed to the continued allocation of €2.7 million annually to the Reconciliation Fund. If funding were increased by the percentages indicated by the Deputy, the allocation would amount to:
Per Cent
|
Amount
|
Plus 5 per cent
|
€2.835 million
|
Plus 10 per cent
|
€2.97 million
|
Plus 15 per cent
|
€3.105 million
|
Plus 20 per cent
|
€3.24 million
|
Any significant increases in funding would also need to take account of the level of staffing resources required to ensure the continued effective operation of the Reconciliation Fund.
More information on the Reconciliation Fund and details of the application process are available on the Department’s website:
https://www.dfa.ie/about-us/funding/reconciliation-fund/