Fears Loom Over Future Funding for Donegal Projects as Trump Review Commences
The Chairman of the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) expressed concern following US President Donald Trump’s order to review most foreign assistance programs. This action has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the IFI’s funding, which has been crucial for numerous peace-building initiatives in Northern Ireland and Donegal.
The IFI’s Funding from the US
The IFI received $4 million (€3.8 million) from the United States in 2024 to support cross-community projects. Last July alone, four Donegal projects garnered over €600,000 from the IFI’s cross-border fund. This financial support has been essential for maintaining and strengthening community relations.
Chairman’s Plea for Clarity
The IFI’s chairman, Paddy Harte, a native of Donegal, emphasized the importance of clarity regarding the potential impact on funding. He stated, “We have always had a very close relationship with the US Administration. We have enjoyed bipartisan support on a financial, political and often very personal basis which has been critical in building and embedding the level of peace we now enjoy on this island.”
Harte added, “We will continue to work with our US colleagues to establish clarity with what this executive order means.”
Congressman Brendan Boyle’s Fight
Democratic Congressman Brendan Boyle, whose father is from Glencolmcille, has been instrumental in securing increased funding. He stated, “It is outrageous President Trump may be freezing these funds. I will do everything possible to fight it.”
Boyle underscored the significance of US government funding: “US government funding for the International Fund for Ireland has played a significant role in sustaining the peace process.”
Decades of Impact
The United States, one of the IFI’s largest donors, has contributed over half a billion dollars since the organization’s inception in 1986. Other donors include Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union.
The funds have supported numerous peace and reconciliation projects, such as the removal of peace walls and initiatives to support young people at risk of paramilitary involvement. Over the years, the funding has also facilitated major projects like the linking of the Shannon and Erne waters from Leitrim to Fermanagh.
Trump’s Executive Order
President Trump signed an executive order last week, initiating a 90-day review of foreign development assistance programs. This move has raised concerns about billions of dollars in funding from the State Department and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) for programs worldwide, including those on the island of Ireland.
Historically, funding to the IFI from the US has seen an upward trend. It increased from $750,000 in 2019 to $4 million in 2024.
Conclusion: Seeking Assurance
The uncertainty surrounding the review of foreign assistance programs has created tension among stakeholders. The IFI’s chairman and Congressman Boyle are actively working to prevent a freeze on funding that could jeopardize vital peace initiatives.
The significance of US support cannot be overstated. The funds have been critical in the context of maintaining peace and fostering reconciliation. The IFI and its partners remain hopeful that the 90-day review will not lead to drastic cuts that could dismantle the fragile peace infrastructure.
For the future of peacebuilding in Donegal and Northern Ireland, it is crucial that stakeholders continue to advocate for sustained funding. The ongoing support from the US is vital for ensuring that the hard-won peace remains solid.
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