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Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, has marked the 20^th anniversary of the referendums on the Good Friday Agreement with a commitment of an additional €1 million in support of reconciliation on the island of Ireland.

Speaking at an event in Iveagh House to mark the 20^th anniversary, the Tánaiste said

This is a tangible expression of our commitment to the Good Friday Agreement and to the message of reconciliation which is at its heart.

Today is about the people of the island of Ireland, North and South, who twenty years ago voted resoundingly in favour of peace and reconciliation. It is particularly fitting then that today we are able to announce this further support for the essential reconciliation work being carried out by civil society and individuals in Northern Ireland and indeed across this island.

The Tánaiste added:

The Good Friday Agreement is the People’s Agreement; the people who share this island and their relationships with each other are at the heart of reconciliation. 

I and the Irish Government are committed to providing the support necessary to ensure that the vital work of reconciliation is protected and progressed. This additional funding will increase the amount available through the Reconciliation Fund to €3.7 million each year.

Speaking following the award of prizes to students who participated in a joint Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade / Department of Education & Skills creative competition for primary and post-primary schools, the Tánaiste said:

 The response of so many young people to this competition was inspiring. Peace and reconciliation is the work of generations and the next phase of this work will be in good hands given the commitment and creativity shown by all those who entered this competition.