Shared Island press releases

On 18 November 2025, Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris announced over €50 million in new Shared Island Fund investments across ten programmes designed to improve quality of life and strengthen connections across Ireland. Key initiatives include a new cross-border media programme, deeper cooperation between fire and emergency services, the launch of the Shared Home Place heritage programme, and expanded efforts to protect biodiversity through the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan. Additional measures include a new Dublin–Derry airlink, enhanced arts and cultural initiatives, and support for new cross-border greenway development.

These investments form part of the Government’s wider €2 billion commitment to the Shared Island Fund through 2035, as outlined in the updated National Development Plan. Together, these initiatives reflect a continued ambition to increase connectivity, foster cooperation, and build greater understanding between communities North and South - helping to shape a more shared, sustainable future for the entire island.

Read the full press release here.

On 10 April 2025, Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced a new phase of the Government’s Shared Island Initiative during a keynote address at the 4th Shared Island Forum. The event marked a significant step forward in the Government’s commitment to fostering cooperation, mutual understanding, and inclusive development across all communities on the island of Ireland.

The Forum brought together over 250 stakeholders from political, civic, community, and economic sectors—representing diverse voices and perspectives from both North and South. Discussions focused on deepening collaboration, building shared opportunities, and advancing long-term sustainable development across the island.

Read the full press release here.
For more information on the Forum, click here.

On 25 February 2025, Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris announced over €50 million in allocations from the Government’s Shared Island Fund. This investment will support a wide range of programmes to be delivered over the next five years, aimed at strengthening cooperation and building a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous island for all.

This announcement reflects the values at the heart of the Shared Island Initiative—fostering collaboration across communities and traditions, promoting sustainable economic and social development, and delivering practical benefits for people throughout the island of Ireland. These programmes will address shared challenges and create opportunities in areas such as climate action, education, health, and infrastructure—enhancing the lives of citizens both North and South.

Read the full press release here.

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