A new cross-community programme aimed at supporting residents in some of Letterkenny’s most disadvantaged areas has been launched by the Letterkenny Community Development Project (CDP).
The Letterkenny Community Impact Project will work with residents in three disadvantaged areas and eight different estates in Letterkenny to build relationships, empower local leadership, and address issues such as poverty, deprivation, exclusion, and social division through a coordinated series of cross-community initiatives.
With the town’s Republican heritage guiding a key element of the project, the support programme aims to engage underrepresented voices in peacebuilding processes such as young people at risk, socially isolated individuals, former political prisoners, and members of ethnic minority groups.
l-R Mary Moy International Fund for Ireland (IFI), Margaret Toner CDP, Lorraine Callan, CDP Shona McCarthy, IFI Chairperson,at the launch of the Letterkenny CDP, IFI Peace Impact Project at the CDP Office in the Courtyard Shopping Centre on Thursday last. Photo Clive Wasson
Led by Letterkenny CDP, the project will establish a new Residents Forum, deliver conflict mediation training, community intervention support and advocacy work, conduct direct outreach to individuals and families impacted by poverty. A peer-led women’s support group, diversionary youth programming, and health and wellbeing initiatives including literacy sessions and access to counselling will be central to the project.
A key strand “Conversations About Conflict” will encourage open dialogue around Letterkenny’s complex past, including its Republican heritage, and include voices from newer communities affected by conflict, war, and displacement. Collaborative cultural events, delivered in partnership with local churches and organisations, will aim to strengthen mutual understanding and celebrate the town’s rich diversity.
Speaking at the launch, Shona McCarthy, Chair of the International Fund for Ireland, said: “This project is a timely and meaningful step forward for the communities of Letterkenny. It provides a platform for dialogue, understanding and shared action, bringing together people from all walks of life to build a stronger and more connected future. By supporting inclusive community engagement this initiative lays the groundwork for lasting peace and positive transformation. We are proud to support the important work of the Letterkenny CDP and its committed volunteers.”
Amy Post, CDP, Anne Flannigan, CDP, Pádraig MacLochlainn, TD, Brida Lee, IFF, Shona McCArthy, IFI Chairperson, , Kevin Gillespie, St. Eunans Cathedral, Cllr. Gerry McMonagle, Letterkenny Milford Municipal District Mayor, Shay Ramsey, CDP, Margaret Toner, CDP, Cllr. Tomás Seán Devine, Cllr. Jimmy Kavanagh, Leas Cathaoirleach Donegal County Council, Mary Moy, IFF and Lorraine Callan, CDP at the launch of the Letterkenny CDP, IFI Peace Impact Project at the CDP Office in the Courtyard Shopping Centre on Thursday June 5th. Photo Clive Wasson
Annemarie Gallagher, Chairperson of Letterkenny CDP, added: “This initiative recognises the depth of history and complexity in Letterkenny’s identity including its Republican legacy and seeks to build bridges within and beyond the town’s boundaries. By encouraging open dialogue and mutual respect, we aim to create a space where all voices are heard and valued. Together, we can address the challenges of the past and work towards a more inclusive, peaceful, and vibrant community for everyone.”
Letterkenny Community Impact Project is supported by the International Fund for Ireland (IFI), with funding of €122,000 under its Peace Impact Programme.
