Over €2.3 million in funding from the PEACEPLUS programme has been secured by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, in collaboration with Monaghan County Council, the Executive Office and the Office of Emergency Planning, to deliver a major cross-border emergency planning project.

Under the auspices of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), the PEACEPLUS project aims to strengthen emergency preparedness, response and recovery, while building safer and more resilient communities across the border region.

The ‘Resilient Neighbours’ project will also address the risks associated with and emergency management of incidents in relation to severe weather, cyber threats, infrastructure, industry and public health.

Over the next three years, the programme will research and evaluate current emergency management structures and processes; develop learning and development opportunities for over 20 emergency and responder and partner organisations and provide tailored training and resources to improve cross-border coordination and enhance community resilience.

Councillor Barry McElduff, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, said: “This PEACEPLUS funding represents a significant step forward in building stronger, safer communities through north-south collaboration and coordinated emergency responses.

“Differences in legislation, protocols and training between jurisdictions can hinder effective responses along the border corridor. By working together, we can ensure a more consistent and effective approach to emergency preparedness and response, creating safer and more resilient communities.”

McElduff thanked the Special EU Programmes Body for its investment and acknowledge the efforts of all partners in securing this funding. “We look forward to working together and seeing this project rolled out over the next three years,” he concluded.