Rural Enabler Programme launched

10 November 2010

The Cross Border Rural Enabler Programme aims to promote peace building and social inclusion in rural areas.

Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew and Junior Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs Mary White TD have launched a cross border programme to promote peace building and social inclusion in rural areas.

The Rural Enabler’s Programme, which is funded by the Peace III Programme, will seek to address sectarianism, racism and other issues of rural inequality through the development and implementation of a community based programme of interventions.

Speaking about the programme, Minister Gildernew said: "Over the past decade we have welcomed a raft of migrant workers, their families, cultures and traditions to our countryside. The diversity which comes with this must be embraced and we must seek new ways of working and living together to promote social cohesion. I believe that this programme has the potential to move us forward in the direction of a shared future, which is something to which we all aspire.

“The future sustainability of the countryside depends on the opportunities available to young people who wish to live and work there. By engaging in this project, they will have an opportunity to shape and play their part in a future where expectations can be realised."

The Minister concluded: "I am confident that the programme will make its mark on rural society and pleased that my Department is able to support it.”

Notes to editors:

The Rural Enabler Project received £2.7million of funding from the Peace III Programe.

It will be delivered by the Rural Community Network (RCN). DARD was involved in the development of the programme and will assist in its delivery through membership on a Regional Strategic Management Board.

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