Dublin, 18 November 2025 — Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris have unveiled a major €50 million investment in ten new Shared Island initiatives, designed to strengthen cross-border cooperation, cultural ties, and community resilience across Ireland between 2026 and 2030.
Key Allocations
- €14m for a Shared Island Media initiative led by Coimisiún na Meán, fostering sustained cross-border journalism.
- €5.9m to enhance emergency management capacity for flood response and technical rescue operations.
- €6m for the Shared Home Place programme, engaging communities and diaspora in Ireland’s diverse heritage.
- €14.5m to expand the Creative Ireland–Shared Island programme and support arts projects.
- €2m to establish a new Dublin–Derry PSO air service from 2026.
- €2m for a Shared Island Greenways Development Fund.
- €6.4m for a cross-border pilot tackling bovine TB.
- €2.3m to support research commercialisation.
- €1.8m to expand the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan.
- €1m for a Cross-Border Partnership on Employment Services.
Taoiseach’s Vision
Announcing the funding, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the programmes represent “investment for the future to improve people’s lives and strengthen connections across the island of Ireland.” He highlighted the new media initiative, expanded cultural programming, and enhanced emergency cooperation as examples of how the Shared Island Fund is building everyday links between North and South.
Tánaiste’s Perspective
Tánaiste Simon Harris welcomed the investment as a step toward “a prosperous and more equal shared island for all.” He emphasised the importance of diaspora engagement through the Shared Home Place programme, noting that Irish communities abroad will play a vital role in shaping dialogue on Ireland’s shared past, present, and future.
Long-Term Commitment
The announcement forms part of the Government’s broader €2 billion pledge to the Shared Island Fund under the National Development Plan, running to 2035. The initiatives aim to deepen cooperation, protect biodiversity, and foster cultural and economic connections across the island.
Government-Buildings-Dublin-Ireland-Picture-by-David-Kernan
