New ‘Shared Narratives’ programme to connect border communities launched
Louth County Council and the Louth Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) have officially launched Shared Narratives
Louth County Council and the Louth Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) have officially launched 'Shared Narratives' a new peacebuilding initiative designed to bring together over 1,100 people from across the border region to share their stories and build lasting relationships.
Supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), this two year project will focus its activities across County Louth and neighbouring border communities in Northern Ireland.
Using creative arts, heritage, and digital media, the programme provides a structured space for those living along the border to explore shared histories and future hopes.
The programme is specifically designed to reach voices often left on the margins of the peace process. It features four distinct strands: Aftermath (focusing on new voices and theatre), Women’s Stories, Youth and Education, and a strand dedicated to Ex-Prisoners and Security Forces. Participants will co-create a series of public outputs, including a new play, a documentary film, a published book, and photographic exhibitions to be held in Louth, Dublin, and Northern Ireland.
Louth County Council PEACE Programmes Manager Grainne Flanagan said: "We are excited to see the beginning of the delivery of the PEACEPLUS Shared Narratives project. This project represents another important step toward deeper mutual understanding. This project celebrates, highlights and shares the unique perspectives that each individual brings to our shared society."
Tally Knipe, Director of EventWise NI (Programme Delivery Lead), said: "Our team is honoured to have secured the contract to deliver this transformative programme on behalf of Louth County Council. Shared Narratives is about more than just looking back: it is about using the power of storytelling (through film, music, and theatre) to help people from different backgrounds connect in a meaningful and purposeful way. We look forward to seeing these stories come to life over the next two years."
Victoria McCollum of Ulster University added: "Ulster University is delighted to be a delivery partner for this initiative. Our focus is on ensuring these narratives are captured with care and creativity, leaving a digital and creative legacy that will continue to spark dialogue long after the programme concludes. It is a privilege to support participants as they co-create these important public works."
The Shared Narratives programme will run until November 2027, with recruitment for initial workshops beginning in May across schools, women’s centres, and community groups in the border region. People can register their interest in advance at www.eventwiseni.com/peaceplus-programmes/
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.