€290k cross-border project in Fermanagh launched to tackle climate change

A cross-border project in Fermanagh has been set up to encourage community relations and tackle climate change.

Cavan County Local Development (CCLD) and The Fermanagh Trust have kicked off a two-year programme that will address climate change while bringing communities together.

‘Empowering Communities for Climate Change’ is backed by a €290,000 grant from the International Fund for Ireland (IFI), under its Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP).

The project plans to engage more than 1,000 participants from various community backgrounds across Cavan and Fermanagh.

The initiative will include Community Climate Leadership training, Youth Climate Action projects, study visits, and introducing the Climate Action Hubs in Enniskillen and Cavan.

The programme will include a peacebuilding through climate change conference where learning and policies can be discussed.

The two-year project has received funding of €290,000 from the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) under its Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP) (Image: Lorraine Teevan) Anne Conaghan, IFI board member, said: “This project presents another important opportunity to bring communities together, harnessing the talent, skills and energies across the board to address one of the most pressing issues facing society, that of climate change.

“Through a strategic partnership approach, it will work collaboratively with rural and urban communities, bringing all together to put in place changes at a grassroots level that will have an immediate and long-lasting impact, while also contributing to overall policy across both jurisdictions.

“The IFI is pleased to play its part, and to support the project through our Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP).”

The project emphasises the impact of ecological, social, and economic concerns on communities.

The aim is for shared experiences and approaches within Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to help shape and inform policy and practices on climate resilience.

Terry Hyland, CEO of Cavan County Local Development, said: “This initiative recognises the strength of communities when they are supported to act together.

“Climate action is not just about energy or emissions.

“It’s about people, inclusion and future resilience.

“We believe that by working across borders, sharing learning, and building leadership from the ground up, we are not only supporting a more sustainable future but also contributing to lasting peace.”

Lauri McCusker, director of Fermanagh Trust, said: “This initiative is a powerful example of how shared challenges like climate change can bring communities across the island of Ireland together.

“By engaging people at a local level and fostering cooperation between communities in Cavan and Fermanagh, we’re not only encouraging environmental responsibility, but also strengthening cross-border relationships and building peace.

“The Fermanagh Trust is proud to be part of this important partnership.”