A NEW Youth PEACEPLUS Programme has been launched in Donegal.
The New Friends, New Relationships Youth PEACEPLUS Programme, a youth-based local community theatre initiative, was officially launched on Wednesday at Kee’s Hotel, Stranorlar.
Delivered by Foróige in partnership with Donegal County Council, the programme is designed to support and empower young people by building confidence, encouraging positive friendships and developing essential life skills within a safe, inclusive and collaborative environment.
This two-year programme is supported by €80,000 in funding through Donegal County Council’s €7.6 million PEACEPLUS Local Co-Designed Action Plan under Theme 3: Building Respect for all Cultural Identities. The project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
The New Friends, New Relationships Children’s Arts Programme, which will commence this summer, is designed to support young people making the transition from primary to secondary school while fostering lasting cross-community friendships. Based in the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District, the programme will provide structured summer supports to between 110 and 130 young people aged nine to 12+ each year over a two-year period.
Using performing arts as a learning tool, the programme places a strong emphasis on enjoyment, creativity and shared experiences. Participants will engage in fun and inclusive activities across theatre, music and the visual arts, creating opportunities to learn together, build confidence and form new and lasting friendships. Within this supportive and enriching environment, young people will also develop important life skills, including conflict resolution, empathy, personal growth, leadership and meaningful cross-community engagement.
The Cathaoirleach and Chair of Donegal County Council, Cllr Paul Canning, officially launched the programme, congratulating Foróige on their success in delivering a high‑quality, youth‑focused initiative that will support young people and strengthen the local community.
Speaking at the launch, Cllr Paul Canning said: “The sense of achievement gained through performance can be truly transformative for participants. Alongside having fun and making new friendships, young people build confidence and resilience while developing skills that are transferable to everyday life and supportive of a successful transition to secondary school. I wish each participant every success and enjoyment as they take part in this exciting programme.”
Claire Gavigan, Foróige Area Manager, added: “At the heart of this programme is enjoyment and connection. By creating a safe, welcoming space where young people can express themselves, have fun and build genuine friendships, we are supporting positive wellbeing, celebrating diversity and encouraging inclusion through creativity and the performing arts.”
The New Friends, New Relationships Youth PEACEPLUS Programme demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting young people at a key stage in their development. By combining creativity, fun and friendship-building, the programme helps young people feel connected, confident and valued, laying the foundations for positive relationships and more inclusive communities across Donegal.