'Retaining PEACEPLUS funding from EU is vital' - Ciara Ferguson MLA
'These programmes have empowered and supported young people and vulnerable groups, and promoted peace building and inclusion work'
Investing in peace must take precedence over funding war, according to Foyle MLA Ciara Ferguson (Sinn Féin).
She was speaking after a debate took place on the continuation of PEACEPLUS funding.
“Retaining central funding from the EU for the PEACEPLUS programme is vital,” said Ms Ferguson.
“Over £1.1 billion in PEACEPLUS funding has been invested in the 6 counties and border counties since 2021," she added.
“Significant investments across every council district in the north and along the border region have ensured socioeconomic regeneration and transformation.
“These programmes have empowered and supported young people and vulnerable groups, and promoted peace building and inclusion work.
“However, the future of funding from the EU is unclear.
“With no proposed EU funding from 2028, this will have serious consequences on maintaining funding for PEACEPLUS programmes.