A support programme for peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland

In its Opinion the Committee welcomed the consultation that had been organised as part of this initiative, which had included members of the Committee of the Regions. It underlined the positive role that this initiative could play in the regeneration of deprived areas and in the reconciliation of communities, and emphasised that local authorities would have a pivotal role to play in defining the measures to be financed. The Committee was particularly pleased that at least 15% of the overall amount would be devoted to cross-border activities and that the funding would be paid directly to the regional and local authorities. Finally, in addition to the measures envisaged, the Committee hoped that it would be possible to fund twinning activities between the three parties concerned. It also hoped that it would be involved in the process to evaluate this initiative.