Network of cross-border greenways plan boosted by 2m euro from Irish Government

The plan for a network of cross-border greenways has been boosted by two million euro (£1.7 million) from the Irish Government.

The Shared Island Greenways Fund is one of a number of cross-border projects through the Shared Island programme.

Stormont Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins welcomed the latest announced funding from the Irish Government.

She said her department is working closely with colleagues in both the Department of Transport (DoT) and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to identify and progress a coherent network of cross-border greenway schemes.

This includes the identification of potential linkages between the existing network in both jurisdictions.

“This two million euro funding from the Shared Island Fund builds on this strategic vision and will support border councils in the ongoing and future development of cross-border greenway projects,” she said.

“Cross-border greenways provide a transformative opportunity to enhance sustainable transport, tourism and regional connectivity and my department will continue to work closely with colleagues in DOT, TII and the relevant councils to maximise this funding opportunity to support delivery.”

Ms Kimmins also welcomed the contribution of 5.9 million euro to develop cross-border emergency management capacity on flood response and technical rescue operations.

“Changing weather patterns are bringing warmer temperatures, heavier rainfall and, as a result, an increase in flooding and flood risk which affects us all across this island,” she said.

“We cannot control the weather but we can take actions to mitigate the problems our changing climate can cause.

“Working in partnership with our multi-agency partners on an all-island basis is key to dealing with the consequences of flooding.

“This builds on the mutual aid arrangements already in place and I welcome this funding to the north’s Fire and Rescue Service for procurement of high volume pumps and specialised flood rescue equipment which will help strengthen the multi-agency response and capability across this island.”