A MAJOR social inclusion programme launched in Letterkenny will see the delivery of much-needed training in recognising and countering discrimination, racism and prejudice.

The Donegal Travellers Project, in partnership with Donegal County Council, has officially launched its second PEACEPLUS initiative, “Pride Not Prejudice”, with an investment of €80,000.

Funded through the PEACEPLUS Programme and supported by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), this initiative is part of Donegal’s Local Action Plan under Theme 3 Building Respect for all Cultural Identities. The broader plan will see €7.6 million allocated to 32 peacebuilding projects across the county between 2025 and 2027.

‘Pride Not Prejudice’ is a cross-community and cross-border social inclusion initiative designed with a focus on transforming the relationships between Travellers, Roma, Black Minority Ethnic communities and the majority population. The programme will see delivery of much needed training in recognising and countering discrimination, racism, and prejudice to 110+ youth and adult participants in the Letterkenny-Milford municipal district, including workshops and events that align with the Donegal Traveller’s Project Strategic Plan 2021-2026. It will empower emerging community leaders with the tools and confidence to drive positive change.

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Paul Canning praised the programme’s vision and potential impact, highlighting its role in fostering greater understanding, inclusion, and collaboration across communities: “‘Pride Not Prejudice’ is a powerful example of how we can build bridges, challenge prejudice, and create a more inclusive society through meaningful engagement and shared learning.”

Special guest speaker David Friel of Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Letterkenny delivered an inspiring address, reinforcing the importance of inclusive community engagement, ‘Pride Not Prejudice is a step towards a more inclusive Donegal, a more equal Ireland, and a future built not on fear but on collective pride’.

Cllr Paul Canning added: “Imagine a community where people of every background — cultural, ethnic, generational, or geographical — work side by side, learn from one another, and build something greater together.

“That is the vision we are striving for in Donegal.”

The launch event was a resounding success, marked by a strong sense of positivity and support. It was attended by staff from the Donegal Travellers Project, the Roma Project, PEACEPLUS staff from Donegal County Council, Cllr Declan Meehan, and representatives from affiliated community organisations such as Donegal Youth Service and Donegal Intercultural Platform.