Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris will seek Cabinet approval to allocate more than €50 million towards new cross-border initiatives, as part of Ireland’s ongoing Shared Island Fund.
The Government has pledged to increase the fund by €1 billion up to 2035, with €510.4 million already allocated between 2020 and 2024.
Additionally, the Tánaiste will advance the second phase of the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, which supports community groups and civic organisations in strengthening cross-border ties.
A €10 million fund will also be made available for the restoration of wetlands, as part of the Government’s broader environmental commitments.
This latest round of funding underscores the Government’s long-term commitment to cross-border collaboration, enhancing connectivity, cultural ties, and environmental conservation across the island.
The Government has pledged to increase the fund by €1 billion up to 2035, with €510.4 million already allocated between 2020 and 2024.
New Funding for Key Cross-Border Initiatives
The latest proposal will set aside up to €57 million for five major projects, including:- €23 million for a 'Shared Destination' tourism initiative
- €20 million towards arts, culture, and heritage projects
- €4 million for the next phase of the Shared Island Civic Society Fund
- €10 million for a new nature restoration programme
Major Investment in Cross-Border Trails and Geoparks
Several cross-border infrastructure projects will also receive funding, including:- €6 million for the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark (Cavan-Fermanagh), linking existing north-south trails
- €6 million for the Carlingford Lough region, creating new trails and water access points
- €6 million to develop 73km of connected trails around Sliabh Beagh Mountain on the border
Boost for Arts and Environmental Conservation
Minister for Arts Patrick O’Donovan will oversee a new €10 million Shared Island Cultural Fund to enhance cultural cooperation across the island.Additionally, the Tánaiste will advance the second phase of the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, which supports community groups and civic organisations in strengthening cross-border ties.
A €10 million fund will also be made available for the restoration of wetlands, as part of the Government’s broader environmental commitments.
This latest round of funding underscores the Government’s long-term commitment to cross-border collaboration, enhancing connectivity, cultural ties, and environmental conservation across the island.
