New cross-border housing initiative which aims to promote inclusion launched

A new cross-border housing initiative that aims to promote inclusion and cross-cultural understanding has launched.

The Common Ground Project was launched by both First and Deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland, as well as Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary. 

The project, which aims to bring together housing organisations and residents to achieve peaceful and thriving communities across Northern Ireland and border areas in the Republic. 

The initiative will run until October 2028 and will work with communities across Northern Ireland and the border region, focusing on supporting newcomer communities and strengthening meaningful connections among people of different cultural and national identities.

First Minister of Northern Ireland Michelle O'Neill said the £2.6 million investment is about helping people feel welcome. 

"When we focus on housing and communities, we are focusing on where everyday relationships are built and where division can be replaced with understanding," she said. 

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly also welcomed the project. 

The 4,800 participants who will be part of this journey will play a vital role in creating communities where everyone can feel a sense of belonging. Projects like this rely on everyone working together to turn the vision into a reality," 

Minster Calleary said it is a source of "great joy" that his department will support the initiative. 

"It is a source of great joy for me that my Department of Rural and
Community Development and the Gaeltacht, in collaboration with the Special EU Programmes Body and The Executive Office in Northern Ireland, will maintain their support for this outstanding initiative," he said. 

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The Common Ground Project led by the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, (SEUPB).

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said “This project is about building relationships, promoting understanding, and ensuring that every individual feels part of a shared and inclusive future, which is the very essence of PEACEPLUS.

“Sustained investment in proven pathways to social cohesion and reconciliation is essential if we are to build communities that are both peaceful and thriving."

“By improving shared spaces and fostering inclusion, we create opportunities for people to come together, strengthening cross-community and cross-border relationships.

“PEACEPLUS empowers those who have often been marginalised to take an active role in shaping their environment, regenerating local areas and creating vibrant public spaces that belong to everyone.”