SEUPB Interreg event

• Cross-Border
• Interreg
• Operational Programme

The new Programme will see Northern Ireland, the border counties of Ireland and parts of western Scotland benefit from €256 million (£170 million) over the next seven years.  The funding is made up of €192 million in additional funding from the European Union along with national contributions of €64 million. 

Views are currently being sought on the proposed INTERREG Operational Programme which contains the rationale for the new programme, its priorities and areas of intervention along with the proposed implementation provisions. 

The new programme focuses on two distinct priority areas that include diversifying and developing the economy by encouraging innovation and competitiveness and supporting activities that promote cross-border co-operation.

Shaun Henry. Director of Programmes, Special EU Programmes Body is urging all people and organisations with an interest in future EU INTERREG funding to participate in the consultation by attending the event to hear the responses of various stakeholder groups and to contribute their own views.  “The event has been created to allow people to gain a comprehensive understanding of the proposed programme and form views on the priority areas and implementation plans and contribute their views.

“The Programme offers us an opportunity to build on the existing historical, cultural and economic links between Northern Ireland and Ireland and western Scotland.

“The overall theme of the Programme is to strengthen and deepen cross-border co-operation with an emphasis on supporting strategic plans and projects which will maximise the impact of the funds throughout the eligible area.  The aim, therefore, is to create a more prosperous region and improve access to services to enhance the quality of life for those living in the eligible area. 

Those interested in attending the consultation event should register online at www.seupb.eu/registrations  or by contacting Jane Irwin at Morrow Communications on Tel: 028 9039 3837. 

The public consultation runs until Monday 30 April and the proposed Operational Programme can be downloaded from www.suepb.eu/consultation or by contacting the Special EU Programmes Body on Tel: 028 9026 6681.