Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
162. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her engagements regarding the ongoing funding of the peace plus programme as part of the EU MFF post-2027; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [71328/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn advance, and since, the publication of the 2028 – 2034 Multiannual Financial Framework my Department and the Department of Finance have proactively engaged on Ireland’s overarching position on the next long-term EU budget.
As part of this engagement, Ministers and officials have advocated for Ireland’s priorities across a range of key areas, including agriculture, competitiveness, security and external action. Support for the PEACE PLUS programme, including appropriate financing, have been and will continue to be an essential priority for the Government.
It is clear that the practical and demonstrable commitments within the PEACE PLUS programme have had significant benefits to reconciliation and peace on the island of Ireland. We must not take this for granted. The programme also is a clear illustration of the strength and foresight of the Union to secure peaceful outcomes, as well as Europe's collective and continued commitment to long-lasting peace and reconciliation. Inclusion of the Fund in the proposal is therefore very welcome and I, alongside my colleagues, will continue to advocate for its continuation.
While implementation of the PEACE PLUS is under the remit of the Minister for Public Expenditure Infrastructure Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework are conducted through the General Affairs Council. This meeting is attended by Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D. In the course of his engagements here, the Minister has advocated extensively for Ireland’s position on the PEACE PLUS programme.
I, alongside my officials and other responsible Ministers and Departments, will continue to engage proactively to ensure the significance of the PEACE PLUS programme to long-lasting peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland is well understood and reflected in the budget.
