Post Project Evaluation Report Following the Successful Implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 2008 – 2010

DONEGAL PEACE III ACTION PLAN

Phase I

Post Project - Evaluation Report

Donegal County Development Board (CDB) Peace & Reconciliation Partnership

June 2012

Table of Contents Page No.

Executive Summary 3

1. Introduction

1.0 Introduction to Evaluation Process 6

2. Information on the Plan

2.0 Information on the Plan 8 2.1 Peace Building Needs Analysis 8 2.1.1 Peace Building Needs Identified 8 2.1.2 Emerging Themes 9 2.1.3 Challenges in a Changing Economic Climate 12 2.1.4 Agreeing a Vision and Strategic Framework 13 2.2 Peace Building Relevance Assessment 15 2.3 Peace Building Risk Assessment 50

3. Outcomes & Impacts

3.0 Outcomes & Impacts 54 3.1 Impact Indicators – Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 54 3.1.1 Indicator I 55 3.1.2 Indicator II 56 3.1.3 Indicator III 59 3.1.4 Indicator IV 62 3.1.5 Indicator V 64

4. Conclusion

4.0 Conclusion 67 4.1 Value for Money 67 4.2 Synergies & Complementarity 67 4.3 Sustainability 67

Appendices:

1. Key socio-economic characteristics for County Donegal 68 2. Peace Building Relevance per action 69 3. Case Studies 81 4. Financial Summary 116

2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ______

Background:

The Donegal PEACE III Action Plan was developed for the entire County of Donegal. Donegal occupies the extreme north western tip of the island of Ireland and is bounded to the North and West by over 1,100 km of Atlantic coast and to the East and South East by the Northern Ireland counties of Derry, Tyrone and Fermanagh. Only a short border of 20 km with County Leitrim joins the South of the county with the rest of Ireland.

Key aspects of the county include peripheral and rural location, weak urban infrastructure, an ageing population, a dependent population, diverse socio-economic base and an increasingly diverse society. Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan provided a framework for the implementation of a range of activities that focused on reconciliation, cultural diversity and equality on a cross community and cross border basis for the period 2008 – 2010.

The Donegal PEACE III Action Plan fully aligns with the PEACE III Programme, Priority 1, Theme 1, as it aims to contribute to building positive relations at a local level in terms of challenging attitudes towards sectarianism and racism in County Donegal and supporting conflict resolution and mediation at a local level.

Methodology:

During the period 2008 – 2010 the Donegal County Development Board Peace & Reconciliation Partnership implemented Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan. The Partnership did this by implementing 22 strategic actions, which resulted in achieving 51 targets.

The types of activities supported included:

• Racism, sectarianism, diversity, conflict resolution and mediation training and capacity building. • Workshops, seminars, debates and conferences to deepen understanding of issues relating to sectarianism, racism, conflict resolution and mediation. • Programmes of events and activities targeting various groups to build positive relations and raise awareness of the above issues. • Cross community, cross border and intergenerational activities to build positive relations. • Programmes targeting the Protestant community to build confidence and support greater understanding and appreciation. • Remembering and commemorating shared histories e.g. Plantation of Ulster. • Supporting integration of minority marginalized and excluded groups with the wider community. • Supporting public services policy and practice provision so as to cater effectively for the needs of minority and marginalized groups.

These activities were delivered using the following three types of implementation methodologies:

• 56 no. grants to a range of organizations including the community and voluntary sector to a value of €1.6m • 9 no. contracts for the delivery of specific actions following a public procurement process to a value of €.87m • 4 no. partners delivering a range of strategic actions to a value of €1.7m.

3 Summary of Findings:

The purpose of this evaluation report is to determine if the structure and processes of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan achieved positive change in the communities in County Donegal during the implementation of Phase I.

It was noted that proposals in the action plan were aimed at changing both individual attitudes, behaviours and skills, and also contributed to developing healthy relationships and connections between individuals, groups and communities. Table 2, on page 16 of this report clearly sets out, in summary, how each intervention supported under the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan corresponds with Woodrow’s Theories of Change.

A number of peace building needs were identified during the consultation process for Phase I of the action plan and these included:

• Sectarianism and Racism: Two sides of the same coin in an increasingly diverse society. • Denial and lack of acknowledgement of sectarianism and racism. • Lack of awareness and understanding of sectarianism and racism. • Lack of trust and cross community contact. • Isolation, poverty and conflict. • Ingrained mentality • Acknowledging and dealing with the past.

The peace building relevance assessment was carried out on the actions supported during phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, and table 3, on page 26 shows a summary of the actions delivered and the impact that each action had on the peace building need identified in the County during the consultation process.

Due to the large number of projects supported in Phase I and with a view to reporting on the quantitative indicators, table 4, on page 37 reports on the actual outputs against targeted outputs as set out in our baseline report.

A conflict risk assessment was carried out initially in the baseline report and a number of conflict related risks were identified, this report reflects on those conflict related risks and provides detail on the lessons learnt for the implementation of Phase II.

Finally, section 3 of this report refers to the five qualitative impact indicators that were set at the beginning of the process and reports on how a range of projects clearly demonstrate the impact that these projects have had on their target group and the wider community in County Donegal.

Conclusions & Recommendations:

In conclusion, and on reflection of the implementation of Phase I, it has become apparent that the Partnership achieved, and in some cases, exceeded the targets set out in Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan.

Through the three-implementation methodologies, identified above, the grant scheme made the plan more accessible to the Community & Voluntary Sector; Partner delivery provided an opportunity to be more strategic in nature and tenders proved less of an administrative burden on those involved.

Good cross border linkages were put in place and the Partnership met the 30% cross border target set. The implementation of Phase I saw the engagement with a wide range of target groups and this has set the platform for progressing into Phase II of the Action Plan. Finally, the seminars, workshops and conferences were well attended and resulted in positive feedback.

4 However, during the consultation process for Phase II, it was widely recognized and communicated from those involved that, whilst the work of the Partnership was very important, the projects and programmes supported during Phase I were only scratching the surface in terms of impacting the target groups and on this basis, there was a strong recommendation that there was a need to continue to support similar work during the period 2011 – 2013.

The findings from this report supports the fact that Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan has resulted in challenging attitudes towards racism and sectarianism and promoted mediation and conflict resolution at a local level in County Donegal.

5 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ______

1.0 Introduction to the Evaluation Process

In order to comply with Council Regulation (EC) No 1083/2066 Articles 47-49 and with the Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, the Donegal County Development Board Peace & Reconciliation Partnership, has developed this Post Project Evaluation report following the successful implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 2008 – 2010.

The European Commission, 2006 defines evaluation as,

“Judgment on the value of a public intervention with reference to criteria and explicit standards (e.g. its relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, utility, sustainability, added value and synergy). The judgment usually concerns the needs, which have to be met by the intervention, and the effects produced by it. The evaluation is based on information which is specifically collected and interpreted to support the judgment”.

This evaluation report addresses the following issues in order to assess the delivery of the programmes and projects supported by the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, in this regard, the Partnership looked at the following key issues and determined that:

Relevance: The aims and objectives of all the projects/programmes supported by the Donegal CDB Peace & Reconciliation Partnership during Phase I of the Action Plan were very relevant and assisted the EU in addressing evolving and key issues around racism and sectarianism, promoting mediation and conflict resolution and the need to reconcile communities at a local level.

Efficiency: Each action supported under the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan demonstrated efficiencies as each element of expenditure was procured under procurement rules and subsequently the PEACE III Secretariat verified all expenditure incurred under the programme.

Effectiveness: The findings from the evaluations carried out by project promoters and as supported in this report clearly show that each of the actions supported during Phase I demonstrate the effectiveness of actions supported in the County.

Utility: All projects supported targeted one or more of the PEACE III target groups and/or areas. It is evident from the information gathered and submitted with this report that the project had an impact on the target groups in the county on both a cross community and cross border basis and addressed specific peace building needs in the county that became evident as part of the consultation process.

Sustainability: The feedback from the consultation process, following the implementation of Phase I and informing the development of the plan for Phase II, clearly showed that the peace building needs remained relevant and that there was a need to continue to support similar types of initiatives during Phase II. There was a general consensus that we were only just scratching the surface in terms of addressing the issues of sectarianism and racism. Therefore, in terms of sustainability, it was obvious that some projects will, in the absence of funding, reach a natural conclusion, however, other projects have embedded within their organizations new ways of doing things, new ways of thinking and embedded a change of culture that will be sustained post the funding period.

Added Value: The types of projects supported under priority 1.1. of the PEACE III Programme in Donegal would not have happened in the absence of Peace

6 funds as the aims and objectives are very specific and directly promote the reconciliation of communities on both a cross community and cross border basis.

Synergy: The programmes and projects supported under the PEACE III funds do not duplicate but rather complement a range of national policies in the area of social inclusion such as the National Development Plan (2007 – 2013), the National Spatial Strategy (2002 – 2020) and the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion (2007 – 2016).

The format of this report is based broadly on the four elements of the Aid for Peace Methodology, an evaluation tool recommended by PWC and endorsed by the SEUPB as an effective mechanism for capturing the impact of projects supported under the PEACE III Action Plans.

The Aid for Peace methodology includes the following four stages:

• Peace building needs analysis • Peace building relevance assessment • Conflict risk assessment • Peace and conflict effects assessment

7 CHAPTER 2: INFORMATION ON THE PLAN ______

2.0 Information on the Plan

This section of the report presents information on the plan and refers specifically to the Peace Building Needs Analysis, the Peace Building Relevance Assessment and the Conflict Risks Assessment outlined in both the baseline and mid term Aid for Peace reports submitted to the SEUPB.

2.1 Peace Building Needs Analysis

The Aid for Peace Baseline Report submitted to the SEUPB in June 2009 set out a detailed Peace Building Needs Analysis for County Donegal. This section of the report presents a summary of this analysis highlighting the key peace building needs identified.

The peace building needs for Co. Donegal were identified in the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 2008 –2010 following:

• A review the impact of the PEACE II Programme in the county, • An analysis of the key socio-economic characteristics for the county and a review of the existing and emerging policy and legislative landscape, • An extensive public consultation process including consultation with key target groups and communities in Donegal, the findings of which were cross-referenced with relevant literature and published research findings.

2.1.1 Peace Building Needs Identified

The Peace Building Needs Analysis identified the following needs:

Impact of PEACE II Programme in Donegal

• A total of 366 projects received funding in County Donegal under the PEACE II Programme over the period 2000-2006 with a total value of €41.8million. • Donegal had a higher level of cross border activity than any other county involved in the PEACE II Programme. • The types of projects funded included projects relating to Social, Economic and Cultural Dialogue, Education and Training, Community Infrastructure and Research activity relating to the impact of the conflict. • The review concluded that a core expertise and experience in the delivery of peace building projects had been acquired in County Donegal by a range of organisations in the community and voluntary sector and in the public sector. This expertise included areas such as: the pooling of experience; cross fertilisation and learning between organisations; promoting and facilitating greater co-ordination; and allowing for strategic thinking and targeting of resources. In this context, the need to continue to build on this strong foundation was identified as central to the successful implementation of the Peace III programme in Donegal.

Key socio-economic characteristics for the county

• An analysis of the socio-economic characteristics of County Donegal showed that the county has severe structural weakness in the economy, a more diverse society in terms of ethnicity, culture and religion and a higher percentage of the population who are socially excluded, isolated or marginalised all of which are further driving poverty levels in the County. 1 The Combat Poverty Agency Report “Mapping Poverty: National Regional and County Patterns” 2, highlighted that Donegal is described as the

1 Helen Johnston, Director of Combat Poverty Agency 2 August, 2005

8 county where the risk of poverty is greatest in all of Ireland. Appendix 1 sets out a list of key socio economic ‘indicators of need’ for Co. Donegal.

Public consultation process and review of relevant literature

In developing the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan an extensive public consultation process was undertaken to allow communities, groups and individuals to identify issues relating to sectarianism, racism and conflict resolution in their area and to suggest ways in which these issues could be addressed. Over 100 people participated in two public consultation workshops and over 30 written submissions were received from a range of groups, organisations and individuals. The findings from this public consultation process were analysed and cross-referenced with existing literature relating to this subject matter. The following key themes emerged from this process:

2.1.2 Emerging Themes

1. Sectarianism and Racism: Two sides of the same coin 2. Denial and lack of acknowledgement of sectarianism and racism in Donegal 3. Lack of awareness and understanding of what constitutes sectarianism and racism 4. Lack of trust and cross-community contact 5. Isolation, poverty and conflict 6. Ingrained mentality 7. Acknowledging and dealing with the past

1. Sectarianism and Racism; Two sides of the same coin

The following issues were identified within the context of this theme: • Society in the Border Region and in particular in Donegal is becoming more diverse with an increase in international migration especially from Eastern European countries and this has given rise to challenges relating to the need for greater community integration and an increase in levels of racism.

• Some forms of racism and sectarianism are almost tolerated as a norm in society today whilst other forms of discrimination are not socially acceptable.

• It is a challenge not to see racism simply as an add-on to anti-sectarianism work although research has found that both feed on common factors such as a sense of entitlement, insecurity, the media and a ‘culture of violence’.

• Racism tends to replace sectarianism with the increase in ethnic minority communities in the county. Racism is not a new phenomenon in Irish society, it has always existed especially in relation to the Traveller community.

• The need to promote equality for all people living in Donegal in terms of opportunities, participation and outcomes and to meaningfully embrace diversity and commonalities within all sectors of the community was a key message emerging from this theme.

2. Denial and lack of acknowledgement of sectarianism and racism

The following issues were identified within the context of this theme: • Sectarianism and racism are seen as problems of Northern Ireland and not relevant to Donegal. • Reluctance by minority groups to highlight incidents, which they feel, are motivated by sectarianism or racism. • Minority communities tend to keep their head down and not engage with the majority community. • No specific category for recording sectarian motivated incidents by An Garda Siochana and this makes it difficult to monitor and measure the extent of sectarianism in Donegal.

9 • Number of well publicised incidents including attacks on Orange Halls in Donegal. Recent literature has drawn attention to ongoing problems of discrimination, attacks on Orange Halls, and their continued inability to hold parades, the sense that their communities’ cultural traditions are not valued and failure to attract funding for community infrastructure 3. • Lack of knowledge in relation to other impacts of the conflict in Donegal e.g. victims and survivors of the conflict, displaced persons and ex-prisoners. • Sectarianism and racism ‘not talked about much’. Majority community not directly affected therefore tend to ignore this form of discrimination in their own community.

The need to challenge attitudes towards sectarianism and racism by raising the level of consciousness that these issues do exist in Donegal, by facilitating and encouraging the participation of minority groups in civil life and ensuring that their voice is heard, emerged as a key message from this theme.

3. Lack of awareness and understanding of sectarianism and racism The following issues were identified within the context of this theme: • People don’t realise that they are discriminating e.g. language used in social settings, telling stories etc. • Sectarianism and racism and the failure to accommodate diversity is often unintentional and can come about through lack of thought, lack of understanding, lack of adequate planning or the persistence of ‘one cap fits all approach’ 4. • ‘Hidden discrimination’ , whereby the indigenous communities are not overt in their opinions but still hold a certain opinion of the other communities that they don’t openly express. Therefore they don’t have the opportunity to address their inherent prejudices or are never faced with their own discrimination. • Perception of low number of minority communities, especially Protestants employed in the Garda and the local authority. • Need to address issue of representation of minority groups on local government structures.

The need to raise the level of consciousness in relation to racism and sectarianism and to ensure that there is equality of opportunity and participation for all members of society emerged as a key message for this theme. This includes the need to ensure that policies and services are planned so that they are accessible to all members of the community.

4. Lack of trust and cross-community contact The following issues were identified within the context of this theme:

• Mistrust, suspicion, fear, disharmony in the community were echoed among the participants as common characteristics of communities experiencing racism and sectarianism, with attitudes of ‘them and us’ remaining. • The findings set out in Border Protestant Perspectives, which states that the conflict increased perceptions of the Border Protestant community as pro-British and this added to prejudice, suspicions, intimidation and misunderstandings 5. • Tendency for the protestant community in Donegal to “ keep their heads down ” and not to engage with the majority community hence problems of lack of participation and integration for the minority Protestant population remain in Donegal and impact on community development in this area. • Segregation in education contributes to sectarian attitudes and the segregation of communities. “Children are developing attitudes and prejudices at a very young age. Biased history teaching in primary schools promotes sectarianism as does attitudes that are taught at home. Neighbouring children may not even know each other, despite being from the same locality” . This view is reinforced by NISRA, in the

3 The Emerald Curtain – The Social Impact of the Border, Harvey, B. et al (2005) 4 Planning for Diversity: The National Action Plan Against Racism 2005-2008 5 Border Protestant Perspectives-A study of the attitudes and experiences of Protestants living in the Southern Border Counties-LOCUS Management and Kathy Walsh, 2005

10 Attitudinal Survey where they found that in the border region, 59% of those from a Protestant community background attended schools, which were completely, or mostly Protestant, and 80% of those from a Catholic community background attended schools, which were completely or mostly Catholic 6. • Barriers to participation such as language, unknown culture and lack of opportunities for integration have contributed to the isolation of the ethnic minority community and that this can “ lead to the ghettoisation of communities whereby clusters of discriminated communities may live together for support ”. This obviously becomes a vicious circle whereby social interaction with the indigenous community is devoid and therefore measures to tackle discrimination become harder to organise.

The need to facilitate, encourage and support greater community integration has been clearly articulated in the consultation process. This involves creating opportunities for social interaction amongst minority, marginalised and the majority community so as to achieve greater cohesion at community level. There is also a need to provide support to marginalised and minority communities in terms of confidence and capacity building so as to support greater participation in civil networks

5. Isolation, Poverty and Conflict The following issues were identified within the context of this theme: • Individuals and communities experiencing racism and sectarianism often feel segregated and isolated and the majority of those experiencing this form of discrimination are very often the socially and economically disadvantaged of our society. • Donegal Travellers Project, in their written submission to this plan describe, from their own experience, the effects of racism and sectarianism on a number of levels i.e. the individual, the family, the wider community and society, stating that: ‘At the level of the community and the individual the effects include poverty, exclusion, lack of confidence, poor mental health and physical health, increased risk of alcohol and drug abuse, lack of educational attainment and internal community conflict. At the wider community and societal level this in turn leads to tension, instability, distrust, power inequalities, lower participation by minorities in democratic and decision making processes, increased community conflict and anti-social behaviour and lack of equality in a range of areas’ . • County Donegal has amongst the highest levels of deprivation in the country. This coupled with the highly dispersed settlement pattern i.e. three quarters of the population (75%) reside in rural areas7, provides a challenging backdrop to addressing issues relating to sectarianism and racism (i.e. lack of transport, lack of childcare, and lack of facilities or support networks) and highlights the increasing importance of supporting community development type activities.

6. Ingrained mentality The following needs were identified within the context of this theme:

• Sectarianism as an ingrained mentality in people’s mindset was identified as an issue in terms of developing this Plan. “P rejudices are learned through generations, they are passed on from old to young, having a lasting effect on the younger generation” . It was acknowledged that “nobody is born sectarian and racist, and hence the question must be asked, where do these attitudes come from?” It was mentioned that segregated education at primary level could also lead to sectarian attitudes. • The need to address sectarianism and racism from early years through education and training at pre-school, primary and secondary school level emerged as a key issue under this theme.

7. Acknowledging and dealing with the past

6 Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (2004) Attitudinal Survey, Special EU Programmes Body 7 The Socio-economic Profile of Donegal, Research & Policy Unit, Donegal County Council

11 The following needs were identified within the context of this theme: • There is a silence in regard to the conflict that prevents open and honest discussion about issues, events, happenings and injustices that prevent full participation in community dialogue.

• The conflict has directly affected the victims and survivors, displaced persons and their families, ex-prisoners and their families and ex-servicemen. These target groups have experienced long term difficulties such as chronic pain and trauma and continue to face psychological problems.

• Many political ex-prisoners living in Donegal have felt isolated and have experienced problems readjusting on their release. The families of ex-prisoners also felt the impact of the conflict and experienced isolation during their partners’ imprisonment and were often stigmatised for the husband’s or father’s politics.

• Ex-servicemen have also experienced traumatic incidents, with little or no support such as counselling to help the soldiers and former soldiers cope with their experiences, particularly in the Republic of Ireland.

• Ex-servicemen would often be “ objects of verbal abuse have a fear of opening up and admitting to belonging to that group for fear of being stigmatised” . It was felt that this group is “ always associated with the past ” and have feelings of “ exclusion from their homeland-this applies to people from Donegal who joined the R.U.C many years ago, to find that they could not return home for the funeral of their parents ”. Research findings 9 note that harassment by local civilians was the most common type of stress related symptom for Irish ex-servicemen serving on the border.

• Some felt that some domestic violence incidents have risen with the end of the conflict and are a by-product of the conflict. However in research commissioned by Derry Well Women and carried out on its behalf by the Institute of Public Health in Ireland in association with the Institute for Conflict Research and Rethink 10 , it found that it was not possible to verify that the number of reported domestic violence instances have risen with the end of the conflict.

Need to develop interventions targeting ex-servicemen and their families, and ex-prisoners and their families; including counselling and trauma services to support their active participation in civil life in Donegal has emerged as part of this theme.

2.1.3 Challenges in a Changing Economic Climate

The Aid for Peace Baseline report acknowledged that the impact of the current global and national economic crisis was being felt in the Donegal economy in the form of job losses and an increase in the level of unemployment. The Aid for Peace Mid-term Report (May 2010) also referred to the increasingly difficult economic situation and noted that the following issues relevant to the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan were emerging: • The economic downturn is creating a situation where racism is becoming more apparent particularly with some accusing the immigrant community of taking jobs and social welfare payments. • Concern has been expressed by groups working in the area of combating poverty and exclusion that the national response to addressing the current economic crisis will result in a reduced focus on minority and marginalized groups at greatest risk of poverty and exclusion.

9 Action Research on the Forgotten Soldiers of Peace, On behalf of Óglaigh Naisiúnta na hÉireann Teoranta (ONET), Jim O’Neill, September 2007 10 Women speaking across the border-the impact of the border and the conflict on women’s health and roles, The Institute of Public Health in Ireland, 2008

2.1.4 Agreeing a Vision and Strategic Framework

In identifying the most appropriate mechanisms and interventions to address the issues identified, the Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership embarked upon a process to produce a detailed action plan. In developing this plan, the following guiding principles were agreed collectively at the outset:

An understanding of the needs of the individuals and the constituent bodies represented on the Partnership. In particular effort is made to facilitate the involvement of marginalised and disadvantaged groups.

Ensuring participation and inclusion of the maximum number of groups and individuals affected and that different methods are used to engage with different groups and individuals.

An effective, comprehensive and ongoing consultation/ review process is developed and implemented

Participants in planning process can expect early and frequent opportunities to feedback.

Mutual respect by all the partners of each others validity and interests

Consensus in decision-making

Shared responsibility and ownership of the process.

The Partnership working arrangements should be team-based.

Transparency and accountability with regard to steps, decision and participants in the process.

Guided by the above principles, the Partnership agreed on a shared vision and a strategic framework to address the needs identified as follows:

Shared Vision “Donegal, a county where there is no racism and sectarianism and where all feel equally valued and confident that they belong”.

Aims

A. Challenge attitudes towards sectarianism and racism B. Promote active participation in civil life in Donegal C. Promote greater community integration within Donegal and on a cross border basis. D. Promote equality and embrace diversity E. Support conflict resolution and mediation

Objectives

In order to achieve the aims set out above, specific objectives were set as follows:

A. Challenge attitudes towards sectarianism and racism

I. Raising the level of consciousness that these issues do exist in Donegal.

II. Promoting a greater understanding of what constitutes sectarianism and racism so as to create a greater level of trust and tolerance within the county and on a cross border basis.

13 B. Promote active participation in civil life

I. Facilitating and encouraging the participation of minority groups in civil life in Donegal.

II. Working to ensure that the voice of the marginalised and minority communities in Donegal is heard in terms of both the democratic and decision making processes.

C. Promote greater community integration within Donegal and on a cross border basis

I. Facilitating, encouraging and supporting social interaction amongst the minority/marginalised and majority communities so as to achieve greater cohesion within communities by promoting cross community contact and relationship building.

II. Facilitating, encouraging and supporting cross border co-operation so as to achieve a greater level of trust and tolerance particularly with neighbouring counties and to promote reconciliation and develop good relations and understanding.

D. Promote equality and embrace diversity

I. Promoting equality for all people in Donegal in terms of opportunity, participation and outcome.

II. Embracing diversity and commonalities in a meaningful way within all sectors of the community.

III. Developing institutional capacity amongst key service providers in terms of policy making and the planning and design of services so as to ensure that they are accessible to all members of the community.

IV. Facilitating, encouraging and supporting interaction between schools and churches in local areas so as to facilitate cross community contact and relationship building.

E. Support conflict resolution and mediation

I. Supporting conflict resolution within communities that are affected by racism and sectarianism.

II. Addressing issues relating specifically to the legacy of the conflict.

The Peace Building Needs Analysis for Co. Donegal shows that a number of key needs were identified at the outset of the process. This needs analysis will be used to assess and evaluate the effectiveness of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan (2008 –2010).

2.2 Peace Building Relevance Assessment

The Aid for Peace Baseline Report (June 2009) presented a Peace Building Relevance Assessment for the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 2008 –2010. The Baseline report concluded that the interventions and actions set out in the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 2008 –2010 were of relevance to the peace building needs identified for the county.

2.2.1 Theories of Change

This Baseline report also referred to Woodrow’s Theories of Change and stated that the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan is based on applying these two approaches to the needs identified in the Peace Building Needs Analysis for Donegal.

It noted that the proposals in the Action Plan were aimed at changing both individual attitudes, behaviours and skills, and also at developing healthy relationships and connections between individuals, groups and communities.

The approach adopted was based primarily on two of the ‘Woodrow’s Theories of Change’ namely the ‘Individual Change Theory’ and the ‘Healthy Relationships and Connections Theory’.

Table 1:

Woodrow’s Theories of Change

Theory Basis of Theory Methods/ intervention activities

The Individual Peace comes through Investment in individual change Change Theory transformative change of a through training, personal critical mass of individuals, their transformation/ consciousness consciousness, attitudes, raising workshops or processes; behaviours and skills dialogues and encounter groups; trauma healing The Healthy Peace emerges out of a Processes of inter-group dialogue, Relationships and process of breaking down networking, relationship building Connections isolation, polarization, division, processes, joint efforts and practical Theory prejudice and stereotypes programmes on substantive between/ among groups. problems.

Table 2 below sets out in summary, how each intervention supported under the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan – Phase 1 corresponds with Woodrow’s Theories of Change.

15 Table 2: Woodrow’s Theories of Change, as it relates to the interventions delivered under the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory To develop a range of 005521- Co-operation Training programme interventions to promote Ireland developed and delivered x x 1) Workplace anti-sectarianism and anti- to 40 organisations in racism in the workplace Donegal To work with young 005714 – Donegal i. 4 Youth clubs / groups people (12-18) and Community Based Youth in Donegal with establish links with Work Consortium meaningful linkages with x x counterparts in Northern local groups across the Ireland border Provision of accredited 005714 – Donegal ii. 2 accredited training training programmes to Community Based Youth programmes delivered as 2) Young People young people and Work Consortium part of a cross community x activities to be delivered and cross border summer as part of a Summer Camp camp programme Adults and young people 005773 – Vocational iv. 4. workshops/ seminars to participate in 4 Educational Committee and 1 no. conference. workshops/seminars x exploring Peace related issues To support older people in 007326 – Donegal County i. 1 Programme of events innovative ways to Council delivered as part of challenge preconceived Bealtaine Festival ideas and address issues 3) Older People of poverty and isolation, x including a programme of events part of the Older People’s festival in Donegal

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory To develop a range of 003668 – Health Service ii. 4 Intergenerational intergenerational projects. Executive Gardens. 1110 – projects delivered in 8 Glenfin. Castlefin areas of the county. Partnership Initiative – 1080. Newtown x x Interchurch – 2739. Association for the Development of Pettigo & Tullyhommon - 1125 To develop activities for 002398 – Inishowen iii. 6 cross community older people in order to Development Partnership. activities focusing on older encourage participation in 002719 – Convoy & people delivered in 6 areas civil life in Donegal District Development of the county including Association. 2378 – crossborder activities Newtowncunningham x Community Development Initiative. 1046 – Voice of Older People. Crossroads & Killygordon Enterprises – 2734. Clonmany Family Resource Centre - 1109 To review models of best 007036 – Health Service iv. Model of capacity practice in order to build Executive building for older people x the capacity of older identified and tested in people in the community Donegal To build the capacity and 002401 – Tyrone, Derry & i. 1 Programme of confidence of single Donegal Action exchange activity 4) Single Identity Groups identity groups (including 002378 – developed and delivered in including the Minority x x a needs analysis) Newtowncunningham consultation with target Protestant Community Community Development group. Initiative

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory A programme of outreach 005714 – Donegal ii. 1 Outreach programme to the Protestant Community Based Youth delivered in collaboration communities to get Work Consortium with existing local engagement on Community Development x community issues Projects and Family Resource Centres and other community facilities Cross community and 002402 – Tyrone, Derry & iii. 4 cross community cross border exchange Donegal Action events to exchange visits of good practice experiences and shared x aimed at reducing learning around the issues sectarianism. surrounding sectarianism delivered. Support the Orange Order 2393, 2318, 2434, 2379, iv. Refurbishment of 5 to refurbish community 2387 Orange Halls in Donegal x infrastructure supported To support activities to 2401 – Tyrone, Derry & v. 4 activities commemorate the Donegal Action. 2406 - commemorating the Plantation of Ulster Ulster Scots Community Plantation of Ulster Network, 2314 - East x x Donegal Ulster Scots. BASICC - 82B. Donegal County Museum - 1036 To support activities and 2406 – Ulster Scots vi. Delivery of 4 of cross events promoting the Community Network and community activities to x cultural identity of the 2314 – East Donegal promote Ulster Scots Ulster Scots Ulster Scots identity Provision of Practical 007324 – Donegal County Establishment of a multi- supports and Council cultural resource centre. 5) Ethnic Minority establishment of a multi- Provision of English Communities including x x cultural resource centre. Languages classes. Travellers Hosting of information sessions

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory To develop a range of 007324 – Donegal County i. 1 Intercultural interventions to support Council forum/platform ethnic minority established and meeting x x communities to participate on a regular basis. in civil life To create a range of 7324 – Donegal County ii. 1 programme of opportunities for social Council activities to facilitate social interaction for the ethnic interaction delivered with x x minority communities and involvement of minority the wider community communities To establish a network of 7324 – Donegal County iii. 1 network of trained trained support persons Council peer support/link persons x available on a sessional available.

basis. To work with ethnic 7324 – Donegal County iv. 1 support network for minority women on a Council Ethnic Minority women cross border basis to who are experiencing x explore issues affecting exclusion and isolation and their lives. strategy to address these issues To review international 007693 – Irish v. Model of Intervention best practice and develop Immigration Centre based on International a model of intervention for best practice identified x x Donegal to support and experienced. integration of ethnic minority communities Developing better relations 007320 – Donegal County i. 1 strategic approach to 6. Build better between Travellers and Council developing relations relationships between the settled community, to between Traveller x Traveller and settled include the development community and settled community of a strategy people developed.

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory To enhance recognition of 7320 – Donegal County ii. 1 awareness raising the Travellers culture Council campaign delivered on Traveller culture and x x cultural diversity through media, arts, sport and tourism. To enhance the focus on 7320 – Donegal County iii. 4 seminars, and understanding of Council conferences and public racism through seminars, debates focusing on x conferences and public racism and other debate associated issues in Donegal hosted. Project to support 001122 – Donegal iv. 1 Employment initiative Employment Initiatives Travellers Project (SGS) delivered and 3 Travellers relating to the low 007320 – Donegal County to avail of work placement x numbers of Travellers Council opportunity. employed in Donegal. Shared Programme of 002401 – Tyrone, Derry & i. 1 Shared programme of Exchange Donegal Action exchange to facilitate social interaction and co- x operation in areas of local interest in 6 areas in the 7. Collaboration between county. Churches A programme to build the 002409 – Health Service ii. 1 Programme to explore understanding of religious Executive West structures and to and cultural diversity challenge sectarian and x racist attitudes and to explore possibilities for co- operation developed

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory Greater interaction 005773 –Vocational i. 1 Shared programme of between Schools Educational Committee events and activities to facilitate social interaction in 6 local areas in the x x county between children, teachers and parents from different schools. Music workshop 5773 – Vocational ii. 1 Music Workshops programme for schools Educational Committee Programme for schools to bring together the two specific musical traditions x x on the island ie. Irish traditional music and pipe 8. Greater interaction bands, delivered in 4 between schools areas. Family reading schemes 1086 – Taobh Tíre iii. 8 Family learning and storytelling training workshops to develop x Family Reading Schemes. Intergenerational Project 005773 – Vocational v. Intergenerational to share memories of the Educational Committee project in 3 locations in x troubles the county. Exploration of cultural 5773 – Vocational vi. 1 Crossborder "Songs identities though music Educational Committee in Schools' initiative to explore cultural identities x x within folk songs including ethnic minority groups in 4 locations.

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory Cross border conflict 5773 – Vocational vii. 10 no. crossborder and resolution programme Educational Committee cross community events to bring students, teachers, parents and business x x volunteers to learn problem solving and conflict resolution techniques. Ex-servicemen and their 006871- QE5 i. 10 people participating families, addressing issues and completing training x relating to the legacy of around peace building the conflict issues 9. Ex-servicemen and their Recognising the role of Ex- 033560 – Donegal County ii. Programme of events families, addressing issues service personnel Council exploring the role of, and relating to the legacy of acknowledging ex- the conflict servicemen (including x x Public Art commission, 3 no exhibitions, schools programme and ‘How we remember’ debate To develop a Small Grants 1026,1027,1033, 1034, i. 30 single location Scheme enabling local 1036, 1037, 1046, 1047, projects supported communities to develop 1063, 1064, 1065, 1080, through small grants innovative programmes of 1085, 1089, 1090, 1091, scheme. activities on a cross 1096, 1099, 1101, 1102, 10. Small Grant Scheme border/cross community 1104, 1107, 1109, 1110, x x basis. 1115, 1119, 1121, 1122, 1125, 1127, 1130, 1135, 2738, 2735, 2734, 2739, 1124, 1061, 1076, 1086, 1098, 1111, 2326

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory To promote greater 5611, 7327 ii. 2 Shared Public Spaces community integration initiatives in 11. Shared Public Space within Donegal and on a Pettigo/Tullyhommon and x x cross border basis Lifford/Strabane supported

To develop an 007325 – Donegal County i. Development of 1 12. Independent Reporting independent reporting Council Independent Reporting x x Scheme scheme Scheme for Sectarian and Racist incidents To develop a scheme that 007320 – Donegal County would encourage local Council 13. Local Media & racism communities to report any x x & sectarianism form of racism or sectarianism incidents 14. Using volunteerism to Explore models of best 007322 – Donegal County ii. Development of 1 model promote active practice in relation to Council of best practice for the participation of volunteerism with a view inclusion of Marginalized x x marginalised and minority to building social capital. and minority groups in groups volunteerism Develop a Diversity Plan 7325 – Donegal County iii. 1 Anti-Sectarianism/ 15. Diversity Plan for for Donegal Council Racism Diversity Plan at x x Donegal county level Provision of service 007325 – Donegal County Interagency Interpretation 16. Training & support for supports to ease access Council Services service providers in for ethnic minorities to 19466 – Inishowen Signage x x delivering culturally public service. Development Partnership Translation appropriate services Cultural Competency Training

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory To develop institutional 007328 – Donegal County 1 Training Programme capacity in terms of policy Council delivered to all members making and design of of CDB Peace III 17. Capacity Building for policies Partnership to develop x x Partnership their individual and collective capacity for Peace and Reconciliation work. Support the development 005733 – Vocational Deliver 1 accredited (MII) of conflict resolution and Education Committee course in Conflict mediation skills in Donegal Resolution and Mediation to train mediators who will be available to work in the county to support the delivery of this conflict resolution and mediation service. (15 participants). 18. Supporting Conflict Deliver Conflict Coaching x x Resolution & Mediation course. Research into mediation needs of organisations in the county. Mediation briefing sessions with organisations. Mediation conference ( 80 people). Terms of reference developed for the delivery of this service

The Healthy Project reference The Individual Change Ref Actions Targeted outputs Relationships and number Theory Connections Theory Events held for delivery 7329 – Donegal County 4 networks established to agents to share the Council facilitate the sharing of learning and network learning acquired in the Programme of sharing the implementation of these 19. Sharing the Learning x x learning for delivery actions with a view to agents mainstreaming Peace building and anti racism work post 2013. To develop an awareness 7322 – Donegal County 1 Awareness Raising raising campaign and Council campaign developed and 20. Awareness Raising information campaign implemented promoting x Initiative promoting equality and equality and embracing embracing diversity diversity 007542 – GAA An innovative Sports and 19345 – Donegal Sports An innovative Sports and Recreation programme of Partnership Recreation programme of activity activity x x 21. Additional Tenders 007283 - An Grianan Theatre An innovative Arts and 007546 – Smashing Times An innovative programme Drama Theatre based 19213 – Donegal County of Activity around Arts and programme of activity Childcare Committee Drama x x

25 The Baseline Report concluded that the interventions set out in the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan were based directly on the peace building needs identified at the outset of the process, and on theories of change that address both individual attitudes and societal relationships.

In order to ensure the relevance of each action in addressing an identified peace building need, the Partnership requested each promoter to prepare detailed proposals for each intervention under the auspices of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan as part of the assessment process. Each promoter was required to set out what peace building needs their proposal would address and how they proposed to address these needs. This formed a core element of the project selection and assessment process for the Partnership ensuring that each intervention was relevant and corresponded to the peace building needs identified at the outset.

The peace building relevance of the actions set out in the plan is clearly shown in Appendix 2, which maps the Peace building need addressed by the actions or interventions delivered.

Table 3 below presents a further summary of the actions, the targeted outputs, the actual outputs, the impact of each action along with impact on the Peace building need identified at the outset, in respect of this action plan.

26 Table 3 – Targeted outputs against actual outputs achieved, per action:

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To develop a range of 005521- Co- Training programme 39 Organisations participated Greater levels of awareness The project was successful in interventions to promote operation developed and delivered in training. Training that the issues exist in the raising awareness and anti-sectarianism and Ireland to 40 organisations in developed and delivered via 16 workplace in Donegal. understanding of racism and 1) anti-racism in the Donegal workshops to 171 participants. Greater levels of sectarianism issues Workplace workplace appreciation that and understanding of cultural diversity and equality. To work with young 005714 - i. 4 Youth clubs / groups 6 Youth clubs in Donegal with Better cross community and Addressed issues relating to trust people (12-18) and DCBYWC in Donegal with meaningful linkages with cross border relationships and lack of cross community establish links with meaningful linkages with groups across the border developed. Developed links contact. It provided opportunities counterparts in Northern local groups across the (approximately 87 targeted). on a cross border basis with to promote equality for all people Ireland border young people and youth living in Donegal in terms of organisations, who opportunities, participation and traditionally have not outcomes. It provided engaged in meaningful cross opportunities to build the capacity border activities due to fear of young people in order that they and distrust. can fully participate in civil life in 2) Young Donegal. People Provision of accredited 005714 - ii. 2 accredited training 2 accredited training Better cross community and Addressed issues relating to trust training programmes to DCBYWC programmes delivered as programmes delivered one on cross border relationships and lack of cross community young people and part of a cross community Understanding Diversity OCN developed. Developed links contact. It provided opportunities activities to be delivered and cross border summer Level II 43 participants and on a cross border basis with to build the capacity of young as part of a Summer camp programme one on Conflict Resolution young people and youth people in order that they can fully Camp Level II 57 participants. organisations, who participate in civil life in Donegal. traditionally have not engaged in meaningful cross border activities due to fear and distrust

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Adults and young people 005773 - VEC iv. 4. workshops/ 4 workshops held in Moville, Participants have better The workshops addressed the lack to participate in 4 seminars and 1 no. Bundoran, Killybegs & understanding of Peace & of awareness and understanding workshops/seminars conference. Falcarragh. One conference conflict related issues of sectarianism and racism and exploring Peace related held on the 05th March 2011 addressed the ingrained mentality issues in Letterkenny attitudes and perceptions To support older people 007326 – DCC i. 1 Programme of events 1 programme of events The festival provided an The events addressed issues of in innovative ways to delivered as part of delivered in May 2010 opportunity to challenge isolation, poverty and conflict and challenge preconceived Bealtaine Festival attitudes, to share provided opportunities for ideas and address issues experiences and address participants to acknowledge and of poverty and isolation, issues of isolation and deal with the past. including a programme poverty resulting from the of events part of the conflict Older People’s festival in Donegal To develop a range of 003668 – HSE ii. 4 Intergenerational 4 intergenerational gardens This project resulted in The project addressed issues of 3) Older intergenerational Gardens. 1110 projects delivered in 8 developed in Letterkenny, greater levels of interaction isolation. It also provided an People projects. – Glenfin. C.P.I areas of the county. Moville, Raphoe and between young and older opportunity to challenge – 1080. Ballybofey. In addition, the people, resulting in greater preconceived ideas and an Newtown Glenfin Teoranta, Castlefin levels of understanding and ingrained mentality attitude. Interchurch – Partnership Initiative, mutual respect 2739. ADoPT - Newtowncunningham 1125 Interchurch Committee and the ADoPT projects all provided intergenerational projects in 4 other areas in County Donegal.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To develop activities for 002398 - IDP. iii. 6 cross community 6 Programmes delivered by The delivery of these This project identified the need to older people in order to 002719 – activities focusing on older Inishowen Development activities resulted in addresses issues of lack of trust encourage participation Convoy & people delivered in 6 Partnership, increased levels of and cross community contact. in civil life in Donegal District areas of the county Newtowncunningham integration both in the Development including crossborder Community Development County and on a cross Association. activities Initiative, Convoy and District border basis encouraging 2378 – NCDI. Development Association, the participation of older people 1046 – Voice Voice of Older People’s project in civil life of Older and Crossroads, Killygordon People. Enterprises and the Crossroads & Dunfanaghy Community and Killygordon Family Resource Centre in Enterprises – County Donegal with a cross 2734. border dimension Clonmany Family Resource Centre - 1109. Dunfanaghy Community and Family Resource Centre 1104 To review models of 007036 - HSE iv. Model of capacity 1 Model of capacity building This project addressed It addressed issues of isolation best practice in order to building for older people identified. The HSE worked issues of isolation and and poverty. Provided an build the capacity of identified and tested in with a range of older peoples poverty and highlighted the opportunity for cross community older people in the Donegal groups in the County to build concept of older people as interaction community their capacity to be seen as community assets. “community assets”. This cumulated in a 1day conference which presented models of international best practice.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To build the capacity 002401 – i. 1 Programme of 2 Programmes delivered. 1 Increased capacity and Addressed issues around lack of and confidence of single TDDA exchange activity Programme delivered targeting confidence with single trust and cross community identity groups 002378 - NCDI developed and delivered 448 participants by TDDA identity groups to participate contact. (including a needs in consultation with target through the North West more fully in civil life in analysis) group. Development Cross Border Donegal. Needs analysis Programme which also carried out with participating undertook a programme of groups. exchange. 1 Programme 4) Single delivered by NCDI under the Identity strategic grant scheme Grups A programme of 005714 – ii. 1 Outreach programme 1 pilot project delivered in Opportunity to promote Provided opportunities that including outreach to the DCBYWC delivered in collaboration collaboration with Fanad equality of participation for promoted equality of opportunity the Protestant communities with existing local Donegal Youth Service Youth all communities to for all people in Donegal in terms Minority to get engagement on Community Development Club and Tamney Church of participate in civil life and be of opportunity, participation and Protestant community issues Projects and Family Ireland Youth Club. part of the decision making outcomes. The project addressed Community Resource Centres and process on issues that affect issues around denial and lack of other community facilities them. acknowledgment that the issues do exist. Cross community and 002402 – iii. 4 cross community 4 events undertaken by TDDA Opportunity for capacity Addressed issues around lack of cross border exchange TDDA events to exchange events delivered engaging the building and sharing of good trust and cross community contact visits of good practice experiences and shared Protestant community, practice models enabling aimed at reducing learning around the issues majority community and cross groups to reduce sectarianism. surrounding sectarianism border participants sectarianism delivered. (approximately 80 participants)

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Support the Orange 2393, 2318, iv. Refurbishment of 5 The following 5 Orange Halls The refurbishment work was Addressed the issue of lack of Order to refurbish 2434, 2379, Orange Halls in Donegal had refurbishment works identified as a need by the trust and cross community community infrastructure 2387 supported undertaken: Orange Lodges and funding contact. The funding of the halls Newtowncunningham, this work was the first step also addressed issues of isolation Killaghtee, St Johnston, in building the capacity and and issues around the conflict

Carricknahorna and confidence of the Orange Ballinakillew Order and encouraged them to engage in cross community events in their halls

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To support activities to 2401 – TDDA. v. 4 activities 7 activities delivered The delivery of these Deallt with the legacy of the past. commemorate the 2406 - Ulster commemorating the overall from the following: activities emphasised the It provided an opportunity to deal Plantation of Ulster Scots Plantation of Ulster TDDA delivered 1event over a legacy of the Plantation and with the ingrained mentality. Community 3 day period delivering 2 highlighted the shared story Network, 2314 sessions per day (80 of the Plantation for both - East Donegal attendees). U.S.C.N delivered communities. Ulster Scots. one workshop which targeted BASICC - 82B. 4 primary schools in the South Donegal of Donegal (150 children). 2 County Talks on Plantation, Moyne Museum - and Doorin (approximately 80 1036 people) and hosted an

exhibition that has been used 12 times by various communities/information booklet (10,000 copies of booklet printed). EDUS delivered 1 festival commemorating the Plantation. BASICC held 5 workshops targeting schools. Donegal County Museum held 14 workshops and developed a resource pack.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To support activities and 2406 – U.S.C.N vi. Delivery of 4 of cross 4 cross community activities Opportunity to build the This project addressed issues events promoting the and 2314 - community activities to overall, delivered as follows: capacity of a single identity around denial and lack of cultural identity of the EDUS promote Ulster Scots USCN delivered 2 bus tours group and to showcase the acknowledgment that issues Ulster Scots identity historic sites associated with culture and heritage around sectarianism exist in the plantation (approximately associated with the Ulster Donegal. It provided an

40 participants). 1 showcase Scots identity. opportunity for this community to event in Harvey’s Point demonstrate to others the value of including Kintra and Irish their cultural traditions. Dancers. E.D.U.S – delivered a cross community event

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Provision of Practical 007324 – DCC Establishment of an multi- The establishment of Port Na To create a focal point in All 7. Addressed isolation. supports and cultural resource centre. Fáilte Intercultural Resource Donegal which is run by the Poverty and conflict. Lack of trust establishment of a multi- Provision of English Centre to promote social community themselves and cross community contact and cultural resource centre. Languages classes. interaction. 20 English which provides a space and the ingrained mentality. Hosting of information languages classes provided in place to integrate to get sessions the resource centre in information and to use for collaboration with the VEC. projects and a place to plan Hosted up to 10 information projects which is accessible sessions in the resource to all members of the centre. community. To support the Romanian Roma community due to illiteracy and poverty 5) Ethnic and special status in the EU Minority who is the most Communiti disadvantaged group in es Ireland. This also led to including greater confidence of this Travellers community and willingness to participate in integration events. Equality of opportunity depends on access to information this was provided in the information sessions and it also provided social events and further created relationships between the service providers and people from the wider community.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To develop a range of 007324 - DCC i. 1 Intercultural 1 Intercultural platform The Platform aims to This project allowed equality of interventions to support forum/platform established with approximately highlight issues affecting opportunity for all people living in ethnic minority established and meeting 40 members from diverse members of minority groups Donegal. The project embraces communities to on a regular basis. backgrounds who meet on a in Donegal addressing them cultural diversity and helped participate in civil life fortnightly basis. feeding into policy making at address the following Peace a local and regional level to building needs - Lack of work towards integration awareness, lack of trust and cross and empowerment. community contact, isolation, poverty and conflict and ingrained mentality. To create a range of 7324 - DCC ii. 1 programme of 56 no. activities/events This project promoted Promoted equality of opportunity, opportunities for social activities to facilitate social developed and delivered in integration between minority addresses issues around denial interaction for the ethnic interaction delivered with Phase I through the medium communities and the and lack of acknowledgement that minority communities involvement of minority of sport, cultural food, Art, majority community. It these issues do exist in Donegal. and the wider communities Drama, Writing festivals, allowed those from minority It embraces cultural diversity. community conferences and research and communities to have a say Promotes equality of opportunity others. Approximately 60 in decision making processes for all and encourages volunteers from the minority and in decisions that affect participation from all members. communities engaged in the their lives. This project also Acknowledging and dealing with organising committees of encourages participation in the past. events. No. 2 Placement civil life in Donegal and on a Students from Higher Level cross border basis. The Educational Institutions to project tackled prejudice conduct research regarding among all groups and how to address developed a sense of trust interculturalism in pre schools between people from in Donegal. Over 10,000 different backgrounds. people participated at various levels within each activity either as an attendee or a participant.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To establish a network 7324 - DCC iii. 1 network of trained 1. network established with 6 Increase the facilities Addresses issues of isolation and of trained support peer support/link persons people at any given time to available to support poverty, deals with an ingrained persons available on a available. support others. Training individuals from mentality and builds the sessional basis. provided on a range of issues minority/disadvantaged/vuln confidence of members of the such as child protection and erable backgrounds on Minority/disadvantaged and mediation and conflict various levels including sign vulnerable individuals to resolution and Red Cross posting, advocacy and participate in civil life in Donegal. Programme and including emotional support. interpreter training. To work with ethnic 7324 - DCC iv. 1 support network for 1. support network created – A group from different Addressed the issues of lack of minority women on a Ethnic Minority women Multi-ethnic Women’s Group ethnic and social acknowledgement that issues of cross border basis to who are experiencing established in Ballyshannon backgrounds was sectarianism and racism exist.

explore issues affecting exclusion and isolation who work in collaboration with established which created Addressed issues around isolation their lives. and strategy to address The Women of the World in sustainable relationships and and poverty and ingrained these issues Enniskillen. 8 ethnic minority friendships with each other mentality and lack of trust and women participating which produced a very cross community contact. impressive piece of textile art which was promoted by the Women and exhibited in various locations on a cross border basis. This group is still very active and involved in future integration projects.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To review international 007693 – Irish v. Model of Intervention 1 model of intervention Capacity building It provided equality of opportunity best practice and Immigration based on International developed. Tender awarded programme and sharing of for all people living in Donegal and develop a model of Centre best practice identified to Irish Immigration Centre, best practice models in meaningfully embraced cultural intervention for Donegal and experienced. Boston. An exchange order to address issues of diversity. It also addressed the to support integration of programme took place with integration of ethnic need to raise the level of ethnic minority participants from organisations minority communities in awareness that issues relating to

communities in Donegal who twined with Donegal. sectarianism and racism do exist in organisations in Boston and an the County and need to be exchange of best practice took addressed. place to assist organisations in Donegal overcome integration issues.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Developing better 007320 - DCC i. 1 strategic approach to 1 Interagency Framework A working draft of the It addressed the following Peace relations between developing relations document in place, produced interagency framework for building needs – conflict Travellers and the between Traveller by an inter-agency working addressing conflict between management, poverty, isolation settled community, to community and settled group consisting of individuals the Traveller and settled and ingrained mentality. Shared include the development people developed. working at a grass roots level community produced and framework agreed by all relevant of a strategy with members of the Traveller sign off obtained from stakeholders in place to be applied Community relevant stakeholders. in instances of conflict between 6) the Traveller and wider settled Developing communities thus ensuring that better conflict is responded to in a relations collaborative and efficient manner. between To enhance recognition 7320 - DCC ii. 1 awareness raising 1 campaign including 13 It provided an opportunity to Project addressed issues around Travellers of the Travellers culture campaign delivered on events held to promote positively highlight the ingrained mentality and issues of and the Traveller culture and awareness of the Travellers Traveller Culture resulting in social integration leading to a settled cultural diversity through culture and to promote social increased confidence and more active role of all communities community media, arts, sport and interaction between the capacity building of the in civil life in Donegal. , to include tourism. Traveller adn settled Traveller Community the community. Cutural through the engagement developme Competency Training Event process of delivering these nt of a delivered. Publication of in actions. It also provided strategy excess of 25 newspaper stories opportunities for increased promoting Traveller Culture social interaction between and wider cultural diversity. the Traveller and settled communities leading to increased levels of trust and tolerance between the two communities.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To enhance the focus on 7320 - DCC iii. 4 seminars, 4 events held as follows: 1) These events provided an Addressed issues of lack of and understanding of conferences and public Imaginary of the Stranger opportunity to raise the level acknowledgement of sectarianism racism through debates focusing on conference 2) Making of consciousness that racism and racism and raising the level of seminars, conferences racism and other Headlines Media Seminar 3) exists and to initiate the consciousness that these issues do and public debate associated issues in Share a Film ( x 2) debate on what that means exist in Donegal. Addressed Donegal hosted. for people who experience it issues of isolation, poverty and daily. conflict and ingrained mentality. Project to support 001122 – DTP iv. 1 Employment initiative This initiative was supported This project resulted in an It provided equality of opportunity Employment Initiatives (SGS) 007320 delivered and 3 Travellers under the Small Grants increase in the confidence for those living in Donegal and relating to the low – DCC to avail of work placement Scheme and the project and capacity of 4 no. people addressed issues of lack of trust numbers of Travellers opportunity. supported the placement of 3 from the Traveller and cross community contact. employed in Donegal. Travellers in a range of Community who completed employments in the County. the work placements. In addition, a clerical officer was employed by Donegal County Council to assist in the implementation of the Respecting and Connecting Communities. Shared Programme of 002401 – i. 1 Shared programme of 1 Shared programme of This programme provided an It addressed issues relating to lack Exchange TDDA exchange to facilitate exchange in the following six opportunity to explore of trust and cross community 7) social interaction and co- areas: 1. Inishowen 2. South opportunities for contract. Collaborati operation in areas of local West Donegal 3. Downings 4. collaboration with a view to on interest in 6 areas in the Laggan Valley 5. Central improving co-operation between county. Donegal 6. Wider Strabane / Churches Derry Area. (287 participants on this programme)

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number A programme to build 002409 – HSE ii. 1 Programme to explore 1 programme undertaken and It provided an opportunity to It addressed issues of denial and the understanding of West structures and to 1 piece of research undertaken explore a range of lack of acknowledgement of religious and cultural challenge sectarian and entitled “A Question of Faith”. understandings of religion, sectarianism and racism. It diversity racist attitudes and to spirituality and cultural provided an opportunity to explore possibilities for co- diversity within a health care examine how the needs of diverse operation developed setting communities are addressed and understood. Greater interaction 005773 -VEC i. 1 Shared programme of 1 programme delivered in This project provided the Addressed issues of lack of trust between Schools events and activities to Gweedore and Inver. Included medium of drama and music and cross community contact. facilitate social interaction 18+ workshops and No. 2 for groups working together. Ingrained mentality. in 6 local areas in the concerts. Total 100 It provided opportunity to county between children, participants build relationships in a safe teachers and parents from and environment and different schools. provided an opportuntiy to explore boarder cultural diversities globally. Music workshop 5773 - VEC ii. 1 Music Workshops 2 x 12 week programmes - It provided an opportunity to It addressed issues of lack of 8) Greater programme for schools Programme for schools to East Donegal (Raphoe, St. look at music traditions in awareness and understanding of interaction bring together the two Johnston, Carrigans) and the area, looking at the the issues Lack of trust and cross between specific musical traditions Inishowen, Letterkenny, issues people have in community contact. Ingrained Schools on the island ie. Irish including the Islands. common rather than mentality. traditional music and pipe Included 16 schools in total. differences. bands, delivered in 4 Resource pack developed and areas. performances in the Regional Cultural Centre and the Plaza in Buncrana. Total 450 participants Family reading schemes 1086 – Taobh iii. 8 Family learning 2 x Wainfest Festival in Oct '09 This project promoted social and storytelling training Tíre workshops to develop & '10. 4 x 'storysacks' projects integration of children from Lack of trust and cross-community Family Reading Schemes. i.e. Reader Development different religious and contact programmes. cultural backgrounds.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Intergenerational Project 005773 – VEC v. Intergenerational Donegal Town, Ballyshannon Provided an opportunity for It addressed issues of lack of to share memories of project in 3 locations in and Bundoran. young people and older awareness and understanding of the troubles the county. Intergenerational choir people to interact and the the issues Lack of trust and cross established and performance young people gained an community contact. Ingrained delivered as part of the insight into what it was like mentality. Isolation, poverty and Beltaine festival. Story telling living during the conflict. conflict and acknowlegement and project over 4 week period, 2 Respect for older people. dealing with the past. workshops and a sight visit per week. Approximately 160 participants Exploration of cultural 5773 - VEC vi. 1 Crossborder "Songs No. 2 Programmes - 9 schools To widen the understanding It provided opportunities for identities though music in Schools' initiative to in each 12 week session. and tolerance of other equality of participation and explore cultural identities Delivered twice. Total of 500 cultures through song, addressed issues such as lack of within folk songs including participants benefitting. focussing on Irish songs and trust and cross community contact ethnic minority groups in Locations as follows: other songs from around the and ingrained mentality. 4 locations. Stranorlar, Raphoe, Muff, world, providing an Clonmany, Moville and Culdaff opportunity to understand the new communities in the area. Cross border conflict 5773 - VEC vii. 10 no. crossborder and Sharing our Community' To help students to be resolution programme cross community events project. 3 Workshops were better able to cope with the to bring students, held in 4 Donegal schools. challenges of increasing teachers, parents and ethnic diversity in their Lack of trust and cross-community business volunteers to community contact learn problem solving and conflict resolution techniques.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Ex-servicemen and their 006871- QE5 i. 10 people participating 18 people (JUAH members) Team building. Beneficiaries Acknowledging and dealing with families, addressing and completing training trained over 2 days. have imroved management the past. 9) Ex- issues relating to the around peace building skills and a clear servicemen legacy of the conflict issues understanding of and their governance issues. families Recognising the role of 033560 – DCC ii. Programme of events 1 Public Art Piece. Educational To recognise the Acknowledging and dealing with addressing Ex-service personnel exploring the role of, and Project in schools. contribution of Ex-service the past. issues acknowledging ex- Development of a resource personnel for their role in relating to servicemen (including pack. Exhibitions in Donegal peace keeping measures in the legacy Public Art commission, 3 County Museum and the conflict of the no exhibitions, schools participating schools conflict programme and ‘How we remember’ debate

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To develop a Small 1026,1027,103 i. 30 single location 43 projects supported under A range of activities Addressed all peace building needs Grants Scheme enabling 3, 1034, 1036, projects supported the Small Grants Scheme supported to promote cross identified. local communities to 1037, 1046, through small grants community and cross border develop innovative 1047, 1063, scheme. integration in order to build programmes of activities 1064, 1065, relations at a local level. on a cross border/cross 1080, 1085, community basis. 1089, 1090, 1091, 1096, 1099, 1101, 10) Small 1102, 1104, Grant 1107, 1109, Scheme 1110, 1115, 1119, 1121, 1122, 1125, 1127, 1130, 1135, 2738, 2735, 2734, 2739, 1124, 1061, 1076, 1086, 1098, 1111, 2326

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To promote greater 5611, 7327 ii. 2 Shared Public Spaces 1 community in action plan Provided a range of activities Provided opportunity for social community integration initiatives in developed and delivered in the for social interaction on a interaction, embraced cultural within Donegal and on a Pettigo/Tullyhommon and Pettigo/Tullyhommon Area. 1 cross community and cross diversity and promoted the cross border basis Lifford/Strabane Past conflict New Future study border basis. The initiative participation of all to fulfil their

supported. completed on the promoted social integration role in civil life in Donegal and to

Lifford/Strabane Area with a and assisted in building the feed into decisions that affect their 11) Shared range of participants from social capital of the area. lives. Public PEACE III target groups Opportunity to explore the Space legacy of the conflict on the

areas targeted and provide a

baseline of the issues

affecting target groups that would assist in the development of the areas in the future To develop an 7325 – i. Development of 1 1 Reporting Scheme developed A co-ordinated approach for Addressed issues of denial and 12) independent reporting Donegal Independent Reporting and implemented. the collation of information lack of acknowledgement that Independe scheme County Council Scheme for Sectarian and on sectarian and racist these issues do exist in Donegal. nt Racist incidents incidents and the ability to Primarily it addressed the lack of Reporting analyse trends and affect awareness and acknowledgement Scheme change of the issues and also addressed issues of isolation. To develop a scheme 7320 – Media campaign 1 media campaign supported Promotion of positive news It addressed the Peace building 13) Local that would encourage Donegal stories need of raising the fact that these Media – local communities to County Council issued do exist in Donegal and Racism and report on any form of that of the ingrained mentality Sectarianis racist or sectarian that exists. m incidents

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Explore models of best 7322 – ii. Development of 1 1 conference held – Making To promote volunteering as It addressed issues of practice in relation to Donegal model of best practice for time count – 64 attendees. 1 a means of building social participation, lack of trust and volunteerism with a view County Council the inclusion of best practice in volunteering in capital. This project cross community contact by to building social capital Marginalized and minority Schools Programme delivered provided a means of creating opportunities for social groups in volunteerism – 22 participants on course. 1 building the confidence of interaction. It also addressed 14) Using cross community cross border the participants to integrate issues of poverty and isolation. volunteeris volunteering project developed in their local community. m to in conjunction with Strabane promote District Council – 14 active participants plus 140 participatio attendees. 2 no. volunteer n of fairs in Stranorlar (13 marginalise organisations plus 55 d and attendees & Inishowen minority Electoral Area (11 groups organisations and 70 attendees). 1 course delivered to unemployed males in Inishowen to encourage volunteering (5 attended) Develop a Diversity Plan 7325 – iii. 1 Anti- 1 Diversity Plan focussing on The Diversity Plan sets out Addressed lack of trust and cross 15) for Donegal Donegal Sectarianism/Racism sectarian and racist issues. an integrated response to community contact, by enhancing Diversity County Council Diversity Plan at county deal with the needs and equality, interculturalism, anti- Plan for level issues identified in relation racism and anti-sectarianism and Donegal to diversity. promoting greater integration at a local level.

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number 16) Provision of service 7325 – Interagency Interpretation 20 key information documents Provision of documentation Addressed issues of lack of Training & supports to ease access Donegal Services identified, by members of an & signage in relevant awareness and understanding of support for for ethnic minorities to County Council Signage inter-agency working group languages for ease of access the issues this project provided service public service. 19466 – Translation translated into relevant by all communities ease of access for ethnic minority providers Inishowen Cultural Competency languages (up to 10). groups availing of public services in Development Training Electronic signage provided in in the County and addressed delivering Partnership 10 key public service points in issues of isolation. culturally the County. appropriate services To develop institutional 7328 – 1 Training Programme 1 Training day provided for Provided an opportunity to Addressed issues of lack of capacity in terms of Donegal delivered to all members Partnership members in July explore the attitudes of the awareness and understanding of 17) policy making and County Council of CDB Peace III 2010 which consisted a Partnership and assisted in the issues – it provided an Capacity design of policies Partnership to develop walking tour of the Derry Walls building their capacity opportunity for the Partnership to Building for their individual and and an interactive meeting around Peace & challenge and question their own Partnership collective capacity for with members from the Reconciliation issues. attitudes and to hear first hand Peace & Reconciliation Theatre of Witness Programme the stories of the conflict. work

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Support conflict 5733 – vi. Deliver 1 accredited 2 no. accredited Mediation An introduction to mediation Addressed issues of an ingrained resolution and mediation Vocational (MII) course in Conflict Training courses delivered. 2 and conflict coaching to mentality and lack of within communities Education Resolution and Mediation no. conflict coaching course participants in the County. understanding and awareness of affected by racism and Committee to train mediators who will delivered.1 Donegal Mediation Legacy in terms of a number the issues. sectarianism be available to work in the Conference held. 1 conference of skilled trained mediators

county to support the in Restorative Practices held. in the County to support the 18) delivery of this conflict 10 trained mediators in delivery of this conflict Support resolution and mediation Donegal. Terms of reference resolution and mediation conflict service. (15 participants). delivered service. resolution Deliver Conflict Coaching and course. Research into mediation mediation needs of

organisations in the

county. Mediation briefing

sessions with

organisations. Mediation conference (80 people). Terms of reference developed for the delivery of this service Events held for delivery 7329 – 4 networks established to The Donegal PEACE III These events provided an Addressed issues of improved agents to share the Donegal facilitate the sharing of Network was established. 4 opportunity for delivery integration and cross community learning and network County Council learning acquired in the no. events held to share the agents to share the learning contact, it provided an opportunity programme for sharing implementation of these learning on the 25th March and network during the for delivery agents to network and 19) the learning for delivery actions with a view to 2010, 27th May 2010 – implementation of Phase I. learn from others who had Sharing the agents mainstreaming Peace conference entitled “Belonging implemented similar projects. Learning building and anti-racism – It’s a Human Right”, 15th work post 2013. November 2011 – PEACE III Show N’ Tell event and 10th June 2011 “SHOWPEACE” was held

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number To develop an 7322 viii. 1 Awareness Raising 1 awareness raising campaign The project promoted a Addressed the denial and lack of awareness raising campaign developed and -Development of the “One clear and coherent message acknowledgement that the issues campaign and implemented promoting Donegal” brand identity with from the Partnership exist in the County. information campaign equality and embracing project logo and strapline. 1 promoting equality and 20) promoting equality and diversity month of events held in embracing diversity. To Awareness embracing diversity November 2010 with over 100 celebrate and raise Raising groups participating. 1 float awareness of the cultural Campaign participating in the St. Patrick’s diversity that exists in the Day Celebrations to promote county to encourage wider equality and embrace diversity community involvement in this work. Workshops and information evening encourageing adults and elderly to get involved in the project. Summer, Easter The prjoect facilitated, Addressed issues of a lack of An innovative Sports and An innovative Sports and and Mid-term camps. Hockey encourage and support awareness and understanding of Recreation programme Recreation programme of and GAA coacing. Numerous interaction between schools, sectarianism and racism and of activity 007542 - GAA activity cross sport days. clubs and communities. ingrained mentality. Activity 1-Border Crossings Additional Summer School=16 Young Tenders People and Ex Prisoners Workshops, 4 Summer School Performances. Activity 2-'Little Positive impact on John Nee Artist Residency'=8 communities involved. A Workshops and 5 diverse target spread to Performances. Activity 3-'Up rural and isolated An innovative Arts and An innovative programme Where The Clouds Are'=12 communities and to groups Drama Theatre based 007283 - An of Activity around Arts and Workshops and 24 and invididuals which are programme of activity Grianan Drama Performances socially isolated. Addressed issues of isolation

Project Impact on Peace Building Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs Actual Outputs Outcome Need number Acting for Change Programme. Engaged participants from a 10 Storytelling Workshops, 10 cross-border and cross- Anti-Sectarianism and Anti- community perspective, Racism Workshops, 5 Equality bringing people together to Workshops, 4 x Origian explore themes that are a Addressed the issue of denial and An innovative Arts and 007543 - An innovative programme Performances, 1 x consequence of the conflict lack of acknowledgement that the Drama Theatre based Smashing of Activity around Arts and Reconciliation and Equality in Northern Ireland and the issues of sectarianism and racism programme of activity Times Drama Through Drama Seminar. Southern Border counties. exists in Donegal. Project Advisory group was established. A Peace Project Community and Sports Forum was established. 6 sports and

community club partnerships were allocated money. 3 multi The programme successfully sport events hosted in 2 used sport as a tool to An innovative Sports and 19345 - An innovative Sports and venues across the county. promote and encourage Addressed lack of cross Recreation programme Donegal Sports Recreation programme of Large conference celebration integration within divided community and cross border of activity Partnership activity event to end the programme communities. contact Developed the professional 19213 - 9 Workshops delivered to early competency of early Donegal An innovative Arts and childhood educators. childhood educators and to An innovative Arts and County Drama Programme of Educational Handbook promote diversity and Addressed issues of a lack of Drama programme of Childcare Activity aimed at pre- developed. Final report involvement of children, awareness and understanding of activity Committee school children completed. parents and educators. sectarianism and racism.

49 2.3 Peace building risk assessment

The Aid for Peace Baseline report presented a conflict risk assessment for the plan and outlined the external conflict related risks that could impinge on the successful implementation of the Plan. Table 4 below sets out details of the risks identified in the Baseline Report, detail on whether or not the risk materialised during implementation and how it was addressed.

Table 4 – Conflict Risk Assessment:

Conflict Risk Assessment

Did this If yes, how was it dealt Conflict Related Risk materialise with? Lessons Learnt for Phase II A. Sectarian attacks on The incident was raised property or significant at a Partnership Meeting buildings such as places of and assistance provided Alot more work needs to be done worship and meeting halls, to the group through the in the area of cross community in particular during the Programme Development work not only in large urban areas marching season. Yes Officer. The Orange but also in smaller communities Order reported the and in particular supporting incident in the newly communities in dealing with formed incident reporting sectarian or racist incidents. scheme developed in Phase 1. B. Growing levels of overt This was dealt with racism expressed both through Port Na Fáilte, verbally and physically inter-cultural resource towards new ethnic centre by offering a range communities related to the of services and supports deteriorating economic in the County including situation. opportunities for social interaction between To build on the work commenced Yes minority and majority in Phase I communities. In addition, cultural competency training was provided to a number of service providers in the county including training on the incident reporting scheme. C. The potential growth of republican paramilitary Informed development of groups and organisations interventions in Phase 2 dissenting from the plan to engage with mainstream commitment to young unemployed men Yes the peace process in the border areas who particularly in Strabane and are deemed to be at risk Derry. of disengaging from the Peace Process

Did this If yes, how was it dealt Conflict Related Risk materialise with? Lessons Learnt for Phase II D. The growth in support for dissident groups, particularly among people who do not have a direct This was acknowledged There is now an action in Phase II memory of the conflict but by Partnership members dedicated to targeting young men are basing their attitudes during the implementation particularly at risk of becoming on one-sided Yes of Phase I and was also engaged in dissident activity. This interpretations of the past raised as an issue during is being delivered by Partner and what often amounts to the consultation process deliver through the Vocational a glorification of violence. for Phase II. Educational Committee

E. Unwillingness of people to engage in peace and reconciliation related activities as it could re- open old wounds, an This remains a constant This issue of targeting will be attitude of ‘let sleeping issue for delivery agents discussed and debated at a dogs lie’ or ‘its over now so Yes on the ground. It is an networking event scheduled to lets forget about it and issue that remains the take place in March 2012. move on’ focus of the Partnership.

F. Difficulty in engaging Projects have been supported in people to address ‘silent Phase II to raise the levels of This was dealt with at a sectarianism’ in rural and awareness of the issues in the networking event in border areas County and to build the Phase I for delivery Yes confidence of those experiencing agents. The keynote silent sectarianism. Delivery speaker on the day was agents will also participate in Dr. Marie Crawley. training on sectarianism and racism as a condition of funding. G. Increase in conflict The Respecting between Travellers and the Connecting Communities Settled community project was implemented with a range of activities to help build better The consultation for Phase II relations between the whilst acknowledging the good Traveller and settled work initiated in Phase I Yes communities. An recognised the need to continue Integrated Framework for and build on this in Phase II. The dealing with conflict has Integrated Framework is being also been developed in tested and amended in Phase 2. close collaboration with all key stakeholders including Donegal Travellers organisation.

Did this If yes, how was it dealt Conflict Related Risk materialise with? Lessons Learnt for Phase II I. Hostility/resistance to The Partnership included Hands supporting work around the of History Project to explore how Plantation of Ulster, Ulster we remember key events in our Scots Culture and Orange Yes history in a sensitive and Order appropriate way. This should This was addressed in help deal with this issue going Phase 1 forward. J. No official statistics exist in Donegal around Racist The need to continue to and Sectarian incidents. The development of the implement and promote this Incident Reporting scheme. This is being driven in Yes Scheme in Donegal to Phase II by Port na Fáilte and collate statistics and forms are available in a range of analyse trends. outlets Countywide.

Lack of availability of the Programme Development Officers to support groups Three delivery mechanisms will as set out above due to the be used during the administrative burden implementation of Phase II, which involved in delivering the will result in a reduced various aspects of the plan. administrative burden on staff, allowing more time for This was an issue in the development work with groups at Yes implementation of Phase grass roots level. In addition, a I dedicated capacity building programme and focus on the legacy of Peace will be implemented and rolled out in Phase II by the Good Relations Officer.

A number of new risks became apparent during the implementation of Phase I projects as outlined in the table 5 below:

Table 5 – New Risks:

Conflict Related Risk New Risk Lessons Learnt for Phase II The issue of engagement Yes The Partnership put in place mechanisms to and support for delivery address this issue and hosted a range of workshops agents to target “hard to of best practice at the official launch of Phase II of reach” groups was identified the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan. as a risk during the implementation of Phase I The challenge of convincing Yes The Partnership took this issue as a clear indication people to take the first step of the need to continue this valuable work and into reaching out to cross aware of this issue, has put an emphasis on community projects was supporting, particularly single identity groups to sighted as a difficulty during build capacity in the first instance and to prepare the implementation of Phase people to challenge themselves in Phase II to I. engage in cross community work.

52 Other risks materialised during the implementation of Phase I, however, these were not directly related to the conflict but risks associated with the application process, in particular the financial and administrative burden placed on community and voluntary groups particularly in light of the reduction in public funding expenditure allocated to the C&V sector as a result of the economic downturn, along with difficulty in accessing over draft facilities as a result of the banking crisis. Other challenges identified by delivery agents that had the potential to impinge on the successful delivery of the projects included transport and the adverse weather to hit the County in the winter of 2009 & 2010.

The Partnership, having identified possible conflict risks at the outset, and reviewing potential risks on an on-going basis are in a better position to manage the impact of these risks during the implementation of Phase II.

53 SECTION 3 – OUTCOMES & IMPACTS ______

3.0 Outcomes and Impacts:

An indicator is defined as “a measure that is used to demonstrate change in a situation, or the progress in, or results of, an activity, project or programme.” Indicators are essential instruments for monitoring and evaluation and exist in many different forms. 1

Impact indicators measure the quality and quantity of long-term results generated by programme outputs.

The PEACE III Programme indicators for Priority 1 – Reconciling Communities, Theme 1 – Building positive relations at a local level are detailed below in Table 6:

Table 6:

Indicator Target Programmes developed and implemented 30 Events that address sectarianism & racism or deal with conflict 60 resolution Participants attending events 3,000 Community balance of participation in events N/a Participants from ethnic minority groups 5% Participants who are young people 40% Changes in attitudes towards cross-community and cross border Improvement in activities attitudes. Proportion of people who have contacts/recognised friends in the Increase other community Levels of trust and tolerance among Programme beneficiaries, Improved decreased levels of prejudice Percentage of adults who think relations between Protestants and Increase Catholics are better than they were five years ago

The findings of this report, clearly demonstrate that the Donegal CDB Peace & Reconciliation Partnership has achieved and in some cases exceeded the target set against both the quantitative and qualitative programme indicators set as outlined above. 2

3.1 Impact Indicators – Donegal PEACE III Action Plan

The following five impact indicators were identified in the baseline report for Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan as follows:

• Increase in the level of awareness that racism and sectarianism exists in County Donegal. • Improved integration of minority and marginalised groups in civil life in County Donegal. • Improved relationships between young people from majority and minority communities and on a cross border basis. • Improved relationships between PEACE III target groups and the wider community. • Increase in trained personnel in conflict resolution and mediation skills.

In this post project evaluation, we will report on each of the above indicators, clearly linking the need identified in the consultation process to the actual projects supported in County Donegal and will illustrate through a range of methodologies, the impact that these projects have had on the target groups in the County.

1 http://www.ceecis.org/remf/Service3/unicef_eng/module2/docs/2-3-1_indicators.doc 2 PEACE III EU Programme for Peace & Reconciliation 2007 – 2013. Northern Ireland and the Border Region of Ireland - Operational Programme, page 55.

3.1.1 Indicator I - Increase in the level of awareness that racism and sectarianism exists in County Donegal:

Research undertaken by the Donegal County Development Board Peace & Reconciliation Partnership for the development of Phase I supported the fact that there were low levels of consciousness that sectarianism and racism existed in County Donegal.

The key findings from the consultation referred to the imaginary scale of tolerance relating to racism and sectarianism in society generally and that some forms of racism and sectarianism are almost tolerated as the “norm”.

There was a general apathy, denial and lack of acknowledgement that sectarianism was an issue in Donegal and it was very much seen as an issue from Northern Ireland. It was acknowledged that as most of the indigenous community were not directly affected by sectarianism a culture existed of ignoring discrimination that existed in their own communities. In addition, those who participated in the consultation process referred to a “hidden discrimination” where indigenous communities held certain opinions that they did not openly discuss.

From the outset, the Partnership were keen to convey a clear and coherent message promoting equality and embracing diversity in Donegal and that this message would underpin all of the actions supported during the implementation of the PEACE III Action Plan 2008 –2010. A number of actions were supported under the Action Plan that raised the level of awareness that racism and sectarianism existed in County Donegal. Outlined hereunder is a synopsis of some of the projects supported and the impact that they had on communities in the County.

The plan also highlighted the fact that minority communities were reluctant to report incidences of sectarianism and racism and again this contributed to a denial by the majority community that these problems actually existed. In order to address this issue the Donegal County Council in conjunction with An Garda Siochana led out on an initiative to develop the “Donegal Independent & Confidential Incident Reporting Scheme”.

Donegal County Council – Project 7322 One Donegal Initiative: The Donegal County Council, as lead partner, facilitated the development of a unique brand identity for the Partnership, which conveyed the Partnerships message of celebrating and embracing diversity as a key way to challenge attitudes towards racism and sectarianism. Every project supported by the Partnership is asked to use this brand identity demonstrating their commitment to join with the Partnership in challenging these attitudes and build positive relations at a community level.

This initiative also included a dedicated month of activity in November when a range of projects, events and activities were held to address issues of sectarianism and racism and to celebrate the diversity that existed within the County. This included the co-ordination of a month of events and activities throughout County Donegal which saw support being given to up to 40 organisations and local initiatives to showcase the positive work going on around anti-sectarianism and anti-racism issues and the promotion of cultural diversity in the County. Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for further information in relation to the awareness raising campaign.

Co-operation Ireland & City Bridges – Project 5521 The Development of a range of interventions to promote anti-sectarianism and anti-racism in the workplace: Co-operation Ireland and City Bridges were successful in their tender submission to deliver a training programme which would raise the awareness in workplaces across the county, among both management and staff, of racism and sectarianism and develop capacity to address these issues and promote cultural diversity and equality. The project delivered 16 workshops, to 171 staff in 39 workplaces in both Donegal and across the border.

Based on participant feedback, the project was successful in raising awareness and understanding of racism and sectarianism and the need to address these in the workplace.

55 72% of participants reported that the training had impacted highly on their understanding of the importance of good relations and equality in the workplace, and over 60% reported a high impact on their understanding of what constitutes racist and sectarian behaviour. Over 90% of participants reported some or high impact on their awareness that racism and sectarianism were issues in the workplace in Donegal. The workshops provided a safe space for discussion of what would normally be sensitive issues and encouraged self-reflection by participants on their own attitudes and behaviour.

Donegal County Council – Project 7320 Respecting & Connecting Communities – Cultural Competency Training. The Respecting and Connecting Communities Project led by Donegal County Council was instrumental in Phase I of the Action Plan in raising the levels of awareness around issues of racism. One element of the Respecting and Connecting Communities project in Phase I was the delivery of Cultural Competency Training. This training delivered by the Donegal Travellers Project in collaboration with a member of the BME saw 66 front line public sector staff given the practical tools and techniques for delivering services and supports to people from a range of different backgrounds and to identify different forms of racism, discrimination and sectarianism and the groups affected. Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for further information in relation to the Cultural Competency Training provided.

Donegal County Council – Project 7325 Incident Reporting Scheme: This scheme aimed to compile a record of sectarian and racist incidents in County Donegal and provided follow up and advice or signposting for victims of such incidences. At the end of Phase I approximately 16 incidents were reported through the scheme and due to the success of this pilot initiative in Phase I the Partnership has supported the continuation of the scheme into Phase II of the implementation of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan for the period 2011 – 2013.

In addition, the Donegal Diversity Plan was a key action emerging from Phase I of the Action Plan. It sets out an integrated response to dealing with the needs and issues identified in relation to diversity in Donegal so as to enhance equality, interculturalism, anti-racism and anti-sectarianism work and to promote greater integration at a local level. The Donegal Cultural Diversity Steering Group with representatives from local government, state agencies and the community and voluntary sector developed this plan in consultation with members of the minority ethnic communities represented on the Donegal Intercultural Forum. The plan contains a number of actions based on the following themes: protection, inclusion, provision, recognition and participation that will be implemented during Phase II of the Action Plan.

In conclusion, the information provided above, from a range of projects supported during the implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, demonstrates that there was an increase in the level of awareness that racism and sectarianism exists in County Donegal from the projects supported by the Donegal CDB Peace & Reconciliation Partnership.

3.1.2 Indicator II - Improved integration of minority and marginalised groups in civil life in County Donegal.

The Donegal PEACE III Action Plan recognised that society in Donegal and the Border Region in general has become more diverse. It was acknowledged that whilst migrant workers have brought extensive benefits both economic and social, negative issues have also arisen with regard to issues of integration and racism.

Isolation was also identified as a key theme, particularly the isolation of members of ethnic minority communities due to barriers to participation such as language leading to issues of mis-trust.

The plan also highlighted that racism was not a new phenomenon in Irish society and that members from the Traveller Community are acknowledged in many reports as being one of the most marginalised and discriminated groups in Irish society.

The plan acknowledged that in general Protestants tended to keep their head down and not to engage with members of the majority community. It was recognised that there was a need to build the capacity of Protestant communities in the County to enable them to participate fully in civil life in County Donegal ultimately leading to greater integration.

The following case studies describes the impact that a number of actions delivered as part of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan (2008 – 2010) in terms of improving integration of minority and marginalised groups in civil life in Donegal.

Donegal County Council – Project 7324 Port Na Fáilte Intercultural Resource Centre: In order to promote the integration of minority communities, Port Na Fáilte, an Intercultural Resource Centre was established. Due to the success of the centre during Phase I, the Partnership made the decision to continue to fund this centre during Phase II, building on the work undertaken in Phase I in terms of supporting black and minority ethnic groups to participate fully in civil life in Donegal. Phase II will focus on the inclusion of “older” ethnic communities and second-generation immigrants.

Port Na Fáilte have initiated a wide range of projects focussing on integration and capacity building of minority communities. Outlined hereunder is a synopsis of some of the projects clearly showing the impact that they have had on the target groups.

The Multi-ethnic women’s group alphabet quilt project was undertaken targeting women who were experiencing isolation due to cultural, ethnic and social factors who now have integrated with others and have become involved in social networks. The project promoter was quoted as saying that “she was so impressed with the way the women stitched than wove together their quilt and their friendships”, whilst a project participant from the Traveller community was quoted as saying that she was “ so proud to be part of the project ”. Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for further information in relation to the Multi-ethnic women’s groups alphabet quilt project.

The FACES project saw the establishment of intercultural groups countywide were strangers looked at each other’s faces and expressed their perception of that person in art form. Participants were asked to look each other in the face and find differences and similarities; this project saw a number of art pieces developed, which were exhibited in the Regional Cultural Centre. Simultaneously, a theatre group was set up to devise a play face to face. One project participant commented on the experience “ it was difficult and in the beginning and embarrassing, but it got easier as we went on, and my partner had such beautiful eyes, we are good friends now!” Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for further information in relation to the FACES project.

Not only was it an aim to integrate minority communities with the majority communities, there was also a requirement to bring people together from similar backgrounds and in this regard, United Africa Day was organised through Port Na Fáilte, this day celebrated the cultural diversity and unity of Africa. It brought people together from very fragmented and divided backgrounds and resulted in a successfully organised big event, which gave participants a sense of pride and unity. A project participant summarised it “ I got a migraine during each meeting, sometimes I felt like running away, but we saw it through, and in the end, when the day came, we had organised a fantastic, huge event together. So I saw, it was possible after all to unite Africa”.

Donegal Travellers Project – Pavee Link: The Donegal Travellers Project led out on a project aimed at supporting Travellers in accessing employment. The project recognised the high levels of unemployment in the Traveller Community is the culmination of a number of factors, not least discrimination or racism in the workplace. This project saw the creation of three work placements in the public sector.

The programme built long term sustainable relationships between the Traveller and settled communities within the workforce and worked towards tackling racism at grass roots level. The programme was successful in engaging members of the Traveller Community with all three members reporting back that they had had a positive experience in their respective workplaces and feedback from the three hosting organisations confirmed this by stating that they too had a very positive experience in the process and would welcome the opportunity of engaging in a similar initiative in the future.

Refurbishment of Orange Halls in County Donegal: This was achieved through a programme of works, which saw the refurbishment of five Orange Halls in a number of locations County Wide. The following is a snap shot of some of the comments from members of the Protestant communities on the impact of having the refurbishment work carried out in their local halls.

“The biggest impact on our group was the reaction of the majority community. We were overwhelmed with the messages of support we received and this really boosted the confidence of the members of our hall. It encouraged interaction and was a point of dialogue between both groups. Since this we have been able to remove shutters from the windows and this gives the hall a more inviting and open appearance to all.”

“ In my opinion, the support for Orange Halls has increased confidence and has resulted in more willingness to engage with funding bodies and less anxiety and cynicism about community development.”

“The greatest impact for us is the Increased participation from across the community. The hall is now very comfortable and user friendly and we have now a source of running water, which we did not have before.”

Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for further information from Protestant communities on the impact the refurbishment of their halls has had on their community.

Findings from the Border Protestant Perspectives stated that there was a risk of an increase in conflict due to an increase in perceptions of Border Protestants being seen as pro British, which added to prejudice, suspicions, intimidation, and mis-understanding, which ultimately led to problems of lack of participation and integration. A range of projects was supported through the grants scheme, in Phase I, which provided an opportunity to explore other cultures and heritage.

The Ulster Scots Community Network – Project 2406 Donegal Plantation 400: The Ulster Scots Community Network undertook a range of activities in Phase I that aimed to explore the Plantation of Donegal and the role of the Ulster Scots community, to educate the Ulster Scots community and other communities about their identity and historical significance and to challenge stereotypes and views traditionally held about the Ulster Scots community.

The project resulted in greater awareness of historical significance of Plantation, increased confidence and awareness of their own community and increased community confidence, social cohesion, respect and tolerance between the minority and majority communities.

The following are quotations from participants who took place in workshops, lecturers and other activities associated with this project.

Schools Project: “We really enjoyed our Ulster-Scots workshop in the Donegal Castle, it was lots of fun. The best part was learning about the different weapons they used. We learned a lot of things about Ulster-Scots culture and history we didn’t know before. Thank you so much for a lovely day out.”

The project promoter concluded by stating that “the interactive schools workshops were a resounding success, with the schools participating asking to have further workshops and events in the near future.” Genealogy Project: “A wide-ranging presentation explaining the origins of Planter families, from the landed elite through to the tenant farmers. An excellent depiction of how to go about researching your ancestry, and what evidence and resources are available. I’m sure there are people here who like me hadn’t realised that their families have been in this area for nearly 400 years.” Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for further information in relation to the projects delivered by the Ulster Scots Community Network.

Inishowen Development Partnership – Project 19466 Interagency Interpretation Services Project: Under the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan the Inishowen Development Partnership delivered the interagency collaborative action focussed on supporting the provision of a locally based interagency interpretation service. The project focussed on collaborating with agencies and partners in developing a county wide framework for and approach to interpretation, undertaking a review of what provisions already existed, and capacity building which saw 25 new community interpreters trained and 60 existing interpreters up skilled. This project has put in place mechanisms to break down barriers of engagement that will promote greater integration and assist members of the minority communities to participate fully

58 in civil life in Donegal. Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for further information in relation to the interpretation project.

HSE Intergenerational Gardens Project 3668 This project, delivered by the Health Service Executive, saw the development of four intergenerational community gardens in areas close to the border. For further information in relation to this project, please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 of this report.

In conclusion, the information provided above, from a range of projects supported during the implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, demonstrates improved integration of minority and marginalised groups in civil life in County Donegal.

3.1.3 Indicator III – Improved relationships between young people from majority and minority communities and on a cross border basis.

The plan identified the need to address issues of sectarianism and racism with young people in Donegal. A recurring issue emerging from the research was that of segregation in the education system and how that had contributed to sectarian attitudes and segregation in communities. It was further recognised that biased history teaching in school together with attitudes taught at home promoted sectarianism. One participant in the focus group stated that “prejudices are leaned through generations, they are passed on from old to young, having a lasting effect on the younger generation”. It was also acknowledged that no-one is born sectarian and racist and therefore the question was posed “where do these attitudes come from?” A key message emerging in relation to this issue was the need to address sectarianism and racism from early years through education and training at pre-school, primary and secondary school.

The research confirmed that there was a lack of trust and cross community contact between young people in the County. The issue of segregation in the Education System was seen as a key factor that had contributed to the need to undertake work in the County to encourage greater interaction between young people in Schools.

Another issue identified for young people, particularly young people from minority communities was that their voices were not being heard in the decision making process for decisions that affect their lives.

The Donegal County Childcare Committee Project 19213 – The Naíonan Le Cheile Programme The Donegal County Childcare Committee developed a tailor made programme for childcare providers that promoted equality and embraced diversity in the context of County Donegal for children 0-5 age group. The programme aimed to provide early childhood educators working with 0-5 year olds with a set of practical tools and resources to support their practice around the areas of diversity, identity and belonging through the creative medium of play, art, music and educational drama. It also aimed to acknowledge the diversity of children and promote greater community integration and active participation in civil life in Donegal.

As part of this programme, the children discussed their understanding of diversity and embracing difference:

“We are all different, that’s why we are special.”

“My mum came in with my little sister and we dressed in dresses sent from Africa. I think it’s called a kanga”.

“International days are fun. We get to eat loads of weird food and dance to songs that I’ve never heard of before”.

The children spoke about the importance of their individual cultural traditions, food, family and music both from Irish culture and non-Irish culture being important to them in school and in their communities.

The children also spoke about ways of ensuring that everyone in their school felt included and suggested different mechanisms and ways of doing this in the future. Please refer to the case studies

59 in appendix 3 for further information in relation to the project delivered by the Donegal County Childcare Programme.

The Donegal Community Based Youth Work Consortium (DCBYWC) Project 5714 – Cross Border Connections: The aim of the project developed and delivered by the Donegal Community Based Youth Work Consortium was to build better cross community and cross border relationships by developing links on a cross border basis with young people and youth organisations, who traditionally have not engaged in meaningful cross border activities due to fear and mistrust. The project focussed on the whole of County Donegal and the Border areas of Derry/Londonderry, Tyrone and Fermanagh.

The DCBYWC delivered a range of actions under the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan. The first action, the provision of cross border, cross community links and programmes of activities saw 559 young people having worked on various issue based programmes using a variety of mediums to explore issues around prejudice, sectarianism, diversity and racism.

Following discussions outlined hereunder please find some feedback from project participants:

“The most useful thing was about learning more about myself and my friends”.

“I loved the casual way of the sessions – no judgement!”.

“It was fun and no one judged you no matter what you said!”

“I am now more confident discussing different issues”.

“I found it useful as I found out a lot about myself!”

Action B1.2 saw 87 young people participate in a shared project to strengthen and promote lasting relationships North and South. This project saw engagement from Strabane Springhill group and Ballybofey Planet Youth, Belleek Youth Project and Pettigo Drop In, Castlederg Youth Forum and Doneyloop Youth Club.

Following the delivery of the programme, outlined hereunder is a synopsis of some of the feedback from project participants:

90% either strongly agreed or agreed that they were more understanding and accepting of diversity. 95% either strongly agreed or agreed that they were more understanding and accepting of other people’s feelings and beliefs. 74% either strongly agreed or agreed that they were making more informed judgements and could take a more balanced view. 87% either strongly agreed or agreed that the programme had a positive impact on their lives.

Action B1.1 saw 240 young people engaged in a Summer Programme. Following discussions outlined hereunder please find some feedback from project participants:

“I really liked learning how people like Travellers live and how they feel”.

“I really liked the way we could express our feelings”.

A number of young people undertook accredited training programmes in Understanding Diversity OCN Level II, Conflict Resolution Level II and Community Leadership Training.

Through learning about various religions and cultures that exist in the world, including the Catholic and Protestant religions, young citizens of County Donegal have learned to see people as equals.

As one participant from the Cross Border Connections Programme put it “there is no reason why people should be fighting over religion now. That was in the past and I think everyone should just work together and move on, and forget all about the silly stuff that went on”.

Another participant of the above programme, stated “if we go travelling and meet people from other religions and other countries, we are able to understand them better. You would now be more respectful when you are there, and not do things that are disrespectful, even if you didn’t know; now you would know”. 3

The Donegal Vocational Educational Committee Project Reference 5733 The Sharing our Community project was an innovative project that focuses on developing relationships and individual changes so that attitudes, prejudices, divisions and behavioural patterns amongst young people in County Donegal could be altered. The project targeted 129 young people from four local schools Errigal College, Carndonagh Community College, Deele College and the Royal and Prior Comprehensive School.

The following is a synopsis of some quotations from the young people following engagement in this process:

“In the first lesson, we learned about diversity and we talked about communication and the different kinds of conflict and ways to resolve the situation. Looking at the clock and gazing out the window are not good signs of communication. I really enjoyed the lessons and they will become useful later in life”.

“During the project I’ve learnt how people can interpret things differently from my friends and me. It’s taught me to consider more opinions than my own and I’ve really enjoyed the experience”.

“We learned that everyone is different and people look at people and judge them. Not everyone is the same and that we should accept everyone. We did activities about acceptance and rejection. It shows how it feels to be rejected. We learned how to solve conflicts and how to communicate with each other better. I really enjoyed this programme and I think I learned a lot of useful stuff”.

The Donegal Youth Council Project Reference 1026– Citizens Now The Donegal Youth Council was supported in Phase I to undertake a project entitled Citizens Now. The aim of the programme was to encourage civic participation amongst young people, to provide platforms for young people to have a voice in the decision making process that affect their lives, it also provided opportunities for young people to meet other young people from diverse backgrounds and to widen inclusivity in the Donegal Youth Council.

A participant from the Donegal Youth Council talked about the benefit of young people being involved in the PEACE III funding initiative. She stated, “It was enlightening that the voices of young people were being heard, because people believe that it’s just adults in politics and that they don’t listen to young people at all. It was an opportunity for us to tell them that young people in Donegal actually do have a voice”.

Gaelscoil Cois Feabhail Project – 1135 The Inishowen Integration through Technology Project Gaelscoil Cois Feabhail delivered a small technology project in collaboration with St. Columb’s Church of Ireland School in Donegal. This project promoted a greater understanding of Protestant and Catholic cultural identity and created opportunities for social interaction between children from the two communities. Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for more information in relation to this project.

Scoil Bhríde Project 1037 – Convoy Schools Partnership This project fostered stronger cross community links by providing opportunities for children from two local schools to come together in a shared activity. For further information on this project, please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 of this report.

In conclusion, the information provided above, from a range of projects supported during the implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, demonstrates improved relationships between young people from majority and minority communities and on a cross border basis.

3 Donegal Community Based Youth Work Consortium, Cross Border Connections, Final Evaluation Report, 31 st March 2011.

3.1.4 Indicator IV – Improved relationships between the PEACE III target groups and the wider community

The plan recognised that low levels of trust and tolerance existed between the PEACE III target groups and the wider community. Again, this is supported from the findings from the consultation process indicating the increase in the number of people from Ethnic minority communities and the cultural diversity that exists in County Donegal.

There was a general consensus that both victims and survivors of the conflict were displaced and did not have an opportunity to have their story heard.

There was a general lack and apathy to accommodate the diversity that existed in the County which led to issues of mistrust, suspicion, fear and disharmony.

Again there a concerted effort was required in order to address the low levels of integration and non- engagement of the Protestant community with the majority community.

The issue of segregation in the Education system was seen as a major contributor to issues of sectarianism and racism. It was recognised that children may have attended the same pre school facility but once they entered into mainstream education they were isolated from children within their locality and did not seem to come into contact with each other until they have completed their formal education.

It was recognised that people held long standing family viewpoints that were inherited by the youth and passed on generation to generation. There was a need for the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan to address this issue and the Partnership supported a number of projects to address the issues of an ingrained mentality.

Finally, it was recognised the Ex-service personnel who had experience atrocities in the conflict had little or no support in terms of the healing process and they did not seem to be recognised for the contribution they had made to peace keeping duties along the border, during the troubles.

The following will provide a synopsis of some of the projects supported to address the need identified in the County and that demonstrate improved relationships between the PEACE III target groups and the wider community:

The Clonmany Youth and Community Resource Centre Project Reference 1109 – Clonmany Ardstraw Women Together Towards Reconciliation and Friendship: The important role women held during the conflict was acknowledged and a range of cross community and cross border women’s projects were supported including the Clonmany Youth and Community Resource Centre project, the aim of the project was to create dialogue between two diverse groups of women on a cross border basis, to create a better understanding of each other’s cultures and to form new relationships whilst learning a new skill.

On completion of the project, the project promoter confirmed that “strong friendships were formed and a sustainable element to build a shared future was developed through the learning process”.

62 Inishowen Development Partnership Project Reference 2398 - Older People Together In Creativity Project (OPTIC) The OPTIC project was born out of a need to bring older people together on a cross border basis, cross community basis. The outputs from the project captured the sense of the tangible and intangible working in concert, where a DVD of a stage performance, “Spring Chickens” was produced, as well as broadcast live from the event. The subtext of this work, was the creation of a real feeling of companionship for the participants, irrespective of background or age.

The intergenerational aspect of the OPTIC project was key for one for the participants, as she stated “the young people showed us how to text, they were great, they showed great patience towards us”.

The East Donegal Ulster Scots Association Project Reference 2314 - The 400 th Anniversary of the Plantation The project was established to look at the legacy of the province of Ulster and to raise the profile and identity of the diversity of the people who live on the Island. As the project promoter commented, “this project is part of our shared history, it does not belong to us and we are only showcasing it, we want everyone to embrace this as part of the legacy of the Island of Ireland”.

The Donegal County Museum Project Reference 1036 – The Planter and the Gael: The County Museum secured money under the Grants Scheme to develop a project that helped to dispel myths held in the popular psyche associated with the Plantation. As the project promoter stated “our history is all around us all of the time particularly in Donegal and Derry and unless we are willing to look at that and look at each other’s histories and each other’s views of our own histories, then we can’t move forward”.

Donegal County Council – Public Art Office 33560 “How we Remember Project”: ‘How We Remember’ Programme of events was a highly ambitious multidisciplinary arts and community project that was both process and project based. It was managed by the Public Art Office of Donegal County Council and worked in partnership with the 28th Infantry Batallion of the Irish Defence Forces (which was established as the Border Batallion in 1973), Donegal County Museum, The Heritage Office of Donegal County Council, The Regional Cultural Centre and Organisation of Ex-Service men Teoranta (ONET) to recognise the contribution that Ex-service personnel had made in terms of the legacy of the conflict.

Donegal County Council – Project 7324 Port Na Fáilte Intercultural Resource Centre: Port Na Fáilte have initiated a wide range of projects focussing on integration and capacity building of minority communities. In order to accommodate the diversity that existed in the County, Port Na Fáilte initiated a project called “Walk & Talk”. This project aimed to integrate Asylum Seekers and members of the wider community in Donegal Town, they did this through a facilitated series of guided weekly walks in South Donegal with participants from Cliffview Hostel and members of the wider community.

The project proved successful on a number of levels as outlined by the project promoter “It provided exercise for people who often suffer from depression and trauma. It introduced the beauties of their new home, creating a sense of place and gave people a chance to get to know each other away from the stark reality of the hostel.”

One project participant outlined how the project had impacted on the men in the hostel “we walked together, got to know each other and got an idea of the history of the place. We shared experiences and shared information.” Please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 for information on the Walk & Talk project.

The Smashing Times Theatre Company – Project 7543 Acting for Change: The Smashing Times Theatre Company developed and delivered an innovative programme using drama and theatre to promote reconciliation and mutual understanding within Donegal and on a cross border basis. The project primarily focussed on young people and as one participant stated “I think it was a good way to discuss things that we don’t really talk about in schools”. For further information in relation to this project please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 of the report.

63 In conclusion, the information provided above, from a range of projects supported during the implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, demonstrates improved relationships between the PEACE III target groups and the wider community in County Donegal.

3.1.5 Indicator V – The activities undertaken to support conflict resolution and mediation at a local level as a result of the conflict.

There was a need for conflict resolution techniques to be embedded within communities affected by sectarianism and racism and a need for mechanisms to be put in place to address issues specifically related to the conflict.

This was supported during the research undertaken for Phase I wherein it was acknowledged that many communities had suffered and continue to suffer as a result of the conflict and other related conflicts within and between ethnic minority communities.

The Donegal Vocational Educational Committee – Project Reference 5733: The Vocational Educational Committee was the lead partner on the Mediation project, which included a short piece of research to identify the mediation needs of organisations, and the project began to explore the development of a framework for its delivery. In addition, two accredited courses in Conflict Resolution and Mediation were delivered. For further information in relation to this project please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 of this report. delivery of accredited mediation training courses, delivery of accredited conflict coaching courses, a conference to raise awareness of mediation as a tool to resolve conflict, working with 12 organisations to promote the value of embedding mediation into their work and finally facilitated sessions for trained mediators leading to the production of a framework document. For further information on both the Mediation and the Restorative Practices Projects, please refer to the case studies in appendix 3 of this report.

QE5 – Project Reference 6871 The JUAH Project “A Journey of Understanding and Healing”: In order to address issues relating to the conflict that directly affected ex-service personnel, QE5 were successful in their tender to deliver a range of supports such as counselling, be-friending and story telling. The programme included Peace & Reconciliation Taster Days for 50 former security forces members in Donegal, Peace & Reconciliation accredited training programme for 46 former security personnel, accredited training in befriending skills for 18 people and 15 beneficiaries received accredited training as befriending co-ordinators, 25 people underwent trauma assessment and 15 people benefitted from trauma counselling and finally, 120 former security force members participated in transformative dialogue.

The Peace &Reconciliation Training course detected signs of attitudinal change, displayed through pre & post measurement research tools, as well as post evaluation forms. All participants viewed Peace & Reconciliation activities as positive and worthwhile. Generally participants displayed a more positive attitude towards engaging with others from different backgrounds. All participants were willing to engage in accredited peace and reconciliation development. Participants had a better awareness of how issues such as prejudice and stereotyping impacted on their daily lives and relationships. They also developed a better understanding of good relations and active citizenship. They illustrated a more open mindset and increased willingness to live in a shared society after participation in Peace & Reconciliation training.

Following the befriending sessions and training it was clear that participants had a clear awareness of, and proficiency in, the role and responsibilities of the befriender. Participants also demonstrated a greater understanding of their own personal attitudes and preconceptions and improved communication skills. The legacy of this element of the project was that participants would act as advocates of sustainable development in reconciliation, and be key supports in building individuals’ capacity to engage in a shared society.

Post evaluation forms illustrated that participant’s viewed transformative dialogue as a positive and useful tool in achieving reconciliation. They demonstrated a better understanding of the impacts of trauma, and the humanistic approach of dialogue in achieving reconciliation across and within communities. Participants also explored cultural differences and areas of controversy within secure

64 parameters and the outcome of the event was extremely positive. Relationships were established and participants from JUAH and Northern Ireland PHX Project engaged in an informal and relaxed manner. On completion of the programme, participants expressed the desire to undertake similar initiatives in the future.

Donegal County Council – Respecting and Connecting Communities Project Reference 7320: One key output of the Respecting and Connecting Communities Project was the development of an inter-agency framework for dealing with conflict between the Traveller and settled communities.

In conclusion, the information provided above, from a range of projects supported during the implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, demonstrates the impact in the County that activities had on supporting conflict resolution and mediation at a local level as a result of the conflict.

Finally, the Donegal County Development Board Peace & Reconciliation Partnership supported 56 projects under the grants scheme, 9 tenders under public procurement and had 5 partners delivering elements of the plan during Phase I, it was not possible to report on the impact of each individual project on their target group, however, in this report we have attempted to give a flavour of the types of projects supported under each of the impact indicators and to demonstrate via a range of mechanisms the impact that the projects have had on the community in County Donegal.

66 SECTION 4 – CONCLUSION: ______

4.0 Conclusion:

The Donegal CBD Peace & Reconciliation Partnership has taken full ownership of implementing Phase I of the Action Plan and has learnt lessons that will assist them in moving forward with the implementation of Phase II for the period 2011 – 2013.

4.1 Value for Money;

The Partnership strived at all times to ensure that the public monies provided under PEACE III funding offered optimum Value for Money. This was apparent under all three-delivery mechanisms. Please refer to the attached table, which provides a summary of the actions supported and the delivery mechanism used to implement the action. The secretariat ensured that each line of expenditure incurred under the grants scheme and through Partner delivery was verified and vouched and that the market was tested to ensure that value for money had been obtained in all instances. The assessment criteria for the actions to be delivered under public procurement included tender price and value for money; therefore, the Partnership board satisfied itself at all junctures that Value for Money was obtained throughout the implementation of Phase I of the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan.

The Partnership can confirm that in the absence of securing funding from the PEACE programme, they could not have implemented Phase I of the Action Plan. In addition, the project partners have concluded that priority measure 1.1 was the only suitable means of funding available to deliver their proposed actions and that the actions they proposed could not be implemented in the absence of PEACE III funding.

4.2 Synergies & Complementarity: The Partnership can confirm that on an overall level the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan, Phase I did not displace activity being undertaken in other areas by other organisations. The PEACE III funds did not duplicate, but rather complemented and created synergies with a range of strategic plans nationally, including, the National Development Plan (2007 – 2013), the National Spatial Strategy (2002 – 2020) and the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion (2007 – 2016).

4.3 Sustainability:

The Partnership moving forward into Phase II, and mindful of the cessation of PEACE III funding post 2013, are keen to ensure that the learning acquired through each post and each action would be embedded in each organisation so that the peace and reconciliation benefits of the programme would be sustained post-project completion. Therefore, a greater emphasis will be placed on all delivery agents during the implementation of Phase II to ensure that all delivery agents will provide on-going details of how the learning acquired will be embedded and sustained from each action into the future. In addition, Donegal County Council will lead out on a capacity building initiative that will, work with groups on the ground to ensure that exit strategies are put in place post 2013.

END

67 APPENDIX 1: ______

Key socio-economic characteristics for County Donegal:

• County Donegal has the largest share of the total population in the border region. • Lower growth rates in population in County Donegal, than in the border region or the state over the period 2002-2006. • County Donegal has a weaker urban structure than in the border region or the state. • County Donegal has a substantially lower population density than the state. • County Donegal has a higher age dependency rate than in either the state or the border region. • Donegal has a greater mix of persons residing in the county, who were born outside of Ireland. • County Donegal has the larger percentage of its population who regard themselves as Irish than in either the border region or the state, despite having a larger percentage of its population being born outside of Ireland. • County Donegal is more religiously diverse that the entire border region. • County Donegal is an ethnic and culturally diverse society. • County Donegal has the second highest percentage share of Travellers in the border region. • County Donegal has the largest number of persons 15 years and over involved in one or more voluntary activity. • County Donegal has a higher percentage involved in the ‘helping or voluntary work with a social or charitable organisation’ and ‘helping or voluntary work with a political or cultural organisation’ than in either the border region or the state. • County Donegal has a lower labour force participation rate than in either the border region or the state. • County Donegal’s unemployment rate is higher than all of the border counties and the state average. • The fastest growth in employment in both absolute and percentage terms was in the construction sector. In addition this growth rate was also higher than in the state. • Employment in traditional industries in county Donegal declined over the period 2002-2006. • County Donegal has a higher percentage of persons 15 years and over who are ‘carers’ than in the state.

Extracted from Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership, Aid for Peace Approach Baseline Report, June 2009

Appendix 2 – Peace building relevance per action:

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society To develop a range 005521- Training programme of interventions to Co- developed and delivered 1) promote anti- operation to 40 organisations in x x Workplace sectarianism and Ireland Donegal anti-racism in the workplace To work with 005714 - i. 4 Youth clubs / groups young people (12- DCBYWC in Donegal with 18) and establish meaningful linkages with x x x links with local groups across the counterparts in border Northern Ireland Provision of 005714 - ii. 2 accredited training accredited training DCBYWC programmes delivered programmes to as part of a cross 2) Young young people and community and cross x x People activities to be border summer camp delivered as part of programme a Summer Camp Adults and young 005773 - iv. 4. workshops/ people to VEC seminars and 1 no. participate in 4 conference. x x x workshops/seminar s exploring Peace related issues

& Killygordon Enterprises – 2734. Clonmany Family Resource Centre - 1109 To review models 007036 - iv. Model of capacity of best practice in HSE building for older people order to build the identified and tested in x x capacity of older Donegal people in the community 4) Single To build the 002401 – i. 1 Programme of Identity capacity and TDDA exchange activity Groups confidence of single 002378 - developed and delivered including identity groups NCDI in consultation with x The 5) (including a needs target group. Minority analysis) Protestant Community

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society A programme of 005714 – ii. 1 Outreach outreach to the DCBYWC programme delivered in Protestant collaboration with communities to get existing local Community x x engagement on Development Projects community issues and Family Resource Centres and other community facilities Cross community 002402 – iii. 4 cross community and cross border TDDA events to exchange exchange visits of experiences and shared x good practice learning around the aimed at reducing issues surrounding sectarianism. sectarianism delivered. Support the Orange 2393, 2318, iv. Refurbishment of 5 Order to refurbish 2434, 2379, Orange Halls in Donegal x x community 2387 supported infrastructure To support 2401 – v. 4 activities activities to TDDA. 2406 commemorating the commemorate the - Ulster Plantation of Ulster Plantation of Ulster Scots Community Network, 2314 - East Donegal x x Ulster Scots. BASICC - 82B. Donegal County Museum - 1036 To support 2406 – vi. Delivery of 4 of cross activities and U.S.C.N and community activities to events promoting 2314 - promote Ulster Scots x x x x the cultural identity EDUS identity of the Ulster Scots

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society Provision of 007324 – Establishment of an Practical supports DCC multi-cultural resource and establishment centre. Provision of x x x x x x x of a multi-cultural English Languages resource centre. classes. Hosting of information sessions To develop a range 007324 - i. 1 Intercultural of interventions to DCC forum/platform support ethnic established and meeting minority on a regular basis. x x x x x communities to participate in civil life To create a range 7324 ii. 1 programme of 5) Ethnic of opportunities for activities to facilitate Minority social interaction social interaction Communitie for the ethnic delivered with s including x x x minority involvement of minority Travellers communities and communities the wider community To establish a 7324 iii. 1 network of trained network of trained peer support/link support persons persons available. x x available on a sessional basis. To work with ethnic 7324 iv. 1 support network for minority women on Ethnic Minority women a cross border who are experiencing x x x x x basis to explore exclusion and isolation issues affecting and strategy to address their lives. these issues

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society To review 007693 – v. Model of Intervention international best Irish based on International practice and Immigration best practice identified develop a model of Centre and experienced. intervention for x x Donegal to support integration of ethnic minority communities Developing better 007320 - i. 1 strategic approach relations between DCC to developing relations Travellers and the between Traveller settled community, community and settled x x x x x x to include the people developed. development of a strategy 6) To enhance 7320 ii. 1 awareness raising Developing recognition of the campaign delivered on better Travellers culture Traveller culture and relations x x x cultural diversity through etween media, arts, sport and Travellers tourism. and the To enhance the 7320 iii. 4 seminars, settled focus on and conferences and public community, understanding of debates focusing on to include racism through racism and other x x x x x x the seminars, associated issues in developmen conferences and Donegal hosted. t of a public debate strategy Project to support 001122 – iv. 1 Employment Employment DTP (SGS) initiative delivered and 3 Initiatives relating 007320 – Travellers to avail of to the low numbers DCC work placement x x x of Travellers opportunity. employed in Donegal.

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society Shared Programme 002401 – i. 1 Shared programme of Exchange TDDA of exchange to facilitate social interaction and x co-operation in areas of local interest in 6 areas 7) in the county. Collaboratio A programme to 002409 – ii. 1 Programme to n between build the HSE West explore structures and Churches understanding of to challenge sectarian religious and and racist attitudes and x x x cultural diversity to explore possibilities for co-operation developed Greater interaction 005773 - i. 1 Shared programme between Schools VEC of events and activities to facilitate social interaction in 6 local x x x areas in the county between children, teachers and parents from different schools. Music workshop 5773 ii. 1 Music Workshops programme for Programme for schools 8) Greater schools to bring together the interaction two specific musical x x x x between traditions on the island Schools ie. Irish traditional music and pipe bands, delivered in 4 areas. Family reading 1086 – iii. 8 Family learning schemes and Taobh Tíre workshops to develop x x x x storytelling training Family Reading Schemes. Intergenerational 005773 – v. Intergenerational Project to share VEC project in 3 locations in x x x x x x memories of the the county. troubles

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society Exploration of 5773 vi. 1 Crossborder "Songs cultural identities in Schools' initiative to though music explore cultural identities within folk x x x songs including ethnic minority groups in 4 locations. Cross border 5773 vii. 10 no. crossborder conflict resolution and cross community programme events to bring students, teachers, parents and x business volunteers to learn problem solving and conflict resolution techniques. Ex-servicemen and 006871- i. 10 people participating their families, QE5 and completing training 9) Ex- addressing issues around peace building x x x servicemen relating to the issues and their legacy of the families, conflict addressing Recognising the 033560 – ii. Programme of events issues role of Ex-service DCC exploring the role of, relating to personnel and acknowledging ex- the legacy servicemen (including x x x x of the Public Art commission, 3 conflict no exhibitions, schools programme and ‘How we remember’ debate

12) To develop an 007325 – i. Development of 1 Independen independent Donegal Independent Reporting t Reporting reporting Scheme County Scheme for Sectarian X X X X Scheme Council and Racist incidents

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society To develop a 007320 – 13) Local scheme that would Donegal Media – encourage local County Racism & communities to Council X X X X X X x Sectarianis report any form of m racism or sectarian incidents Explore models of 007322 – ii. Development of 1 14) Using best practice in Donegal model of best practice volunteeris relation to County for the inclusion of m to volunteerism with a Council marginalised and promote view to building minority groups in social capital volunteerism active x X X participatio n of marginalise d and minority groups Develop a Diversity 7325 – iii. 1 Anti- 15) Plan for Donegal Donegal sectarianism/Racism Diversity County Diversity Plan at county X X X X Plan for Council level Donegal Provision of service 007325 – Interagency 16) Training supports to ease Donegal Interpretation Services, 7 support access for ethnic County signage, translation, for service minorities to public Council cultural competency providers in service 19466 – training X X X X X x delivering Inishowen culturally Developme appropriate nt services Partnership

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society To develop 007328 – 1 Training Programme institutional Donegal delivered to all members capacity in terms of County of CDB Peace III 17) policy making and Council Partnership to develop X X X X x Capacity design of policies their individual and Building for collective capacity for Partnership Peace & Reconciliation work Support the 005733 – Deliver 1 accredited development of Vocational (MII) course in conflict resolution Education Conflict Resolution and mediation skills Committee and Mediation to train in Donegal mediators who will be available to work in the county to support the delivery of this conflict resolution and mediation service. (15 18) participants). Deliver Conflict Coaching Supporting X X X X x Conflict course. Research into Resolution mediation needs of & Mediation organisations in the county. Mediation briefing sessions with organisations. Mediation conference ( 80 people). Terms of reference developed for the delivery of this service

Sectarianism and Racism: Two Denial and Lack of Lack of awareness Lack of trust Isolation, Project Acknowledging and sides of the same acknowledgement and understanding and cross- poverty Ingrained Ref Actions reference Targeted outputs dealing with the coin in an of sectarianism and of sectarianism and community and mentality number Past increasingly racism racism contact conflict diverse society Events held for 7329 – 4 networks delivery agents to Donegal established to share the learning County facilitate the sharing and network Council of learning acquired programme of sharing the in the implementation 19) Sharing of these actions with X X X X X X X the learning for a view to Learning delivery agents mainstreaming Peace building and anti- racism work post 2013. To develop an 7322 – 1 Awareness Raising awareness raising Donegal campaign developed campaign and County and implemented 20) information Council promoting equality X X X X Awareness campaign Raising promoting equality and embracing Initiative and embracing diversity diversity An innovative Sport 7542 – GAA An innovative sports and Recreation 19345 – 21) and recreation Programme of Donegal programme of activity X X X X Additional activity Sports Tenders Partnership An innovative Arts 7283 – An An innovative & Drama Theatre Grianán programme of activity based programme Theatre around Arts and of activity 7546 – Drama Smashing Times X X X X X 19213 – Donegal County Childcare Committee

80 APPENDIX 3 – CASE STUDIES ______

1 – One Donegal Cultural Diversity Month of Events

2 – Respecting & Connecting Communities – Cultural Competency Training.

3 – Port Na Fáilte – Multi-ethnic Women’s Group Alphabet Quilt

4 – Port Na Fáilite – FACES Project

5 – Killaghtee Orange Hall

6 – Ballinakillew Orange Hall LOL 454

7 – Carricknahorna Orange Hall

8 – Ulster Scots Community Network – Donegal Plantation 400 Genealogy Project

9 – Ulster Scots Community Network – Donegal Plantation 400 Schools Project

10 – Ulster Scots Community Network – Donegal Plantation 400 Lecture Project

11 – Inishowen Development Partnership – Interpretation Service

12 – HSE Intergenerational Community Gardens Scheme

13 – Donegal County Childcare Committee - Naíonáin le Chéile Programme.

14 – Gaelscoil Cois Feabhail – The Inishowen Integration through Technology Project

15 – Scoil Bhríde – Convoy Schools Partnership

16 – Port Na Fáilte – Walk & Talk Project

17 – Smashing Times Theatre Company – Acting for Change

18 – Donegal Vocational Education Committee – Mediation & Conflict Coaching

19 – Donegal Vocational Education Committee – Restorative Practices

81 Case Study I – One Donegal Cultural Diversity Month of Events

Aim: Promoting equality and embracing diversity through the development of a multiannual awareness raising and information campaign to convey a clear and coherent message for the Partnership promoting equality and embracing diversity in Donegal and underpinning all of the actions outlined in the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 2008 – 2010.

Objective: Hold a month of events and activities throughout County Donegal supporting a range of local initiatives to showcase the positive work going on around anti-sectarianism and anti-racism and to promote cultural diversity. Month of events to be rolled out in November, events to be identified and funding agreed for these. (approx. 40 events during this month) Programme of events developed, launched and distributed widely by September 2010. High profile launch of Month of events at the start of November. All those hosting events encouraged to promoted these widely in their local media.

Project Title: One Donegal Cultural Diversity Month

Applicant: Donegal County Council

Partners: PEACE III Target Groups, Community and Voluntary Sector, Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership, other PEACE III funded groups on a cross-border basis.

Target Area: Throughout Donegal and on a Cross Border Basis

Timescale: As part of the overall awareness raising campaign, a dedicated month was set aside for events, all activities took place in this month however preparation and project completion took place in the months proceeding and following the event. November 2011

Strategic Priority: Promoting equality and embracing diversity

Brief description of the project:

ODCDM aimed to work to ensure that the message from the partnership was conveyed both within and beyond the county in a clear and concise manner. Embracing and Celebrating Diversity: a month long campaign to address issues of sectarianism and racism and to celebrate the diversity that exists in Donegal today. November 2010 was agreed as the month that would be used to hold the event for a number of reasons including the existence of space in the busy cultural calendar in Donegal, not too many other festival programmes running in November, some natural dates that could be used to develop some of the themes for target group members including Armistice Day on 11th November and the Indian Festival of Lights, Diwali, which usually falls in early November. Schools were also in term time, which meant they could have events included in the programme if they wished.

Over 100 events were actually completed during the month in the first year, a busy month with events on every day, except one, throughout the month.

Events were held in venues throughout the county including Public Service Centres, Cultural and Arts Centre, Family Resource and community Centres, the Hospital, museums and libraries, Church Halls, historic buildings, schools and sports venues

The events used a variety of media to convey a clear message relating to addressing sectarianism and racism and promoting cultural diversity including art and photography, drama with discussion, music, sport, cultural exchanges and contemplation events, many of the ways show cased to address these issues.

82 Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Increased awareness of the cultural diversity of the county and how this is enriching to our community. Increased awareness and discussion around what sectarianism and racism is, of their persistent existence in the county and how there is a need to address these issues. 100+ events held throughout the month. Media coverage secured for whole event by Good Relations Officer, plus individual projects secured additional funding for their specific events. Newspaper, internet and radio coverage.

Achievements/progress to date: Participation from the PEACE III target groups – Minority Protestant Community involvement – TDDA, Newtowncunningham LOL, Young People – through school events, Ethnic Minority Groups – Saree Soree, Diwali – Indian Festival of Lights, Cliffview Asylum Seeker and Refugee Hostel and MEAS, Ex- Servicemen through the JUAH project and EBSPA inputs, Ex Political Prisoners and their families – Ahaile Aris Seminar

Participation and inclusion from all sections of the community and all geographical locations through the resource allocation model was adopted for the distribution of monies and support to groups wishing to host events that addressed PEACE III themes. Groups submitted a simple and short proposal form and the monies were distributed to a range of groups to ensure that the event would be delivered in all geographical areas of the county and that a variety of the PEACE III themes would be addressed. Monies distributed ranged from €100 - €5000.

A number of groups whose projects were in receipt of their own PEACE III funding (either through grants, procurement/tendering as a partner or their own distinct funding) contributed to the month of events by hosting activities during the month at no cost to this specific programme, bolstering the quantity and adding to the quality of the programme. This willingness to participate highlights the openness right across the county to address the issues of racism and sectarianism and to celebrate the diversity that exists in Donegal today.

An important element of the month is that it had a cross-border element; whish was addressed through a number of the programmes run throughout the month.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area?

Our aim was to ensure that all in the county had a chance to participate in the month of events; we believe the geographical spread of events allowed this to happen. Additionally, the participation of the PEACE III target groups further raised awareness of the Partnership’s role in addressing racism and sectarianism and the promotion of cultural diversity.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? Two Main Challenges: Challenge 1: Enabling lower capacity groups to access support through the proposal form while ensuring that all necessary requirements of the funder were complied with. Action 1: The project officer met with a number of community and voluntary groups to encourage participation in the process, including PEACE III target groups, prior to the call for proposals being issued. Challenge 2: Compliance with funders Action 2: The project officer outlined all of the requirements with the call for proposal and groups submitting expressions of interest had to illustrate that appropriate quotes had been sought, and agree to comply with all other requirements. The project and clerical officer worked closely with the groups to ensure all elements were in place including financial and publicity requirements.

Quote from the project promoter “The event is being delivered and funded by the Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership’s PEACE III funding. The month aims to challenge racism and sectarianism and promote cultural diversity, peace-building and cross border work. There are a wide variety of events taking place throughout the month and we hope that you will go along to support some of these and help to make this event a success. They are in venues spread across the county and differ in style to suit children, families, adults, community groups and schools – something for everyone to attend.”

Concluding comments

One Donegal Cultural Diversity Month is led out by Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership; it has continued to be built upon from its inaugural year in 2010, with another successful month in November 2011. The second year saw more organisations hosting event and more events being held with less money in the budget. We are hoping to build further on this work in 2012 by further increasing the number of events and ensuring that along with supporting new groups that those in receipt of PEACE IIII funding through the Donegal PEACE III Action Plan 2011 – 2013 use the opportunity to highlight their work as they work along with the Partnership to achieve their vision.

Contact details: Sarah Thompson Good Relations Officer Community, Culture and Planning Donegal County Council Station Island Liffford County Donegal

84 Case Study 2 – Respecting & Connecting Communities

Aim: Building positive relationships between the Traveller and wider settled community in Donegal.

Project Title: Cultural Competency Training.

Objective: The objective of the Cultural Competency Training was to provide front line staff of public service providing organisations with practical tools and techniques for delivering services and supports to persons from a range of difference backgrounds and to identify different forms of racism, discrimination and sectarianism and the groups affected by it.

Applicant: Respecting & Connecting Communities

Partners: Donegal County Council’s Good Relations Officer.

Target Area: Frontline staff of Public Service Providing Organisations.

Timescale: 1 full day from 10.00am until 4.00 pm.

Strategic Priority: Building Positive Relations at a Local Level.

Brief description of the project: The training was developed and delivered by Donegal Travellers Project in collaboration with a member of a BME Group. Five training events were delivered from September 2010 until March 2011 with 66 people attending the training. The training was extensively promoted within the statutory, community and voluntary sectors together with the general public and received very positive evaluations. The training dealt with such topics as identifying racism, explaining the power relationship between the majority ethnic group and the minority ethnic group, policy developments & providing participants with practical tools and techniques for delivering services and supports to person from a range of different backgrounds.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes the project achieved what it had set out to do. 66 people attended the training days, which included role-plays, and dramatisation where participants got an appreciation of amongst others what it is like for a refugee and/or a member of the Traveller community to receive services. The training also providing tools and techniques to the participants going forward.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? In my opinion the significant impact arose from the participants receiving a first hand account of what it is like for minority ethnic groups to deal with service providers. This was further compounded when the participants had to then role-play the scenarios for themselves.

Challenges/issues that arose during the process, if any? Although the training was free of charge and refreshments were provided we still had difficulty in recruiting participants. This was partially due to no value being placed on the training by Employers or due to staff shortages staff could not be released.

Quote from the project promoter “Getting Employers to see the importance of this type of training is imperative for the progression and development of more culturally diverse service provision”.

Quote from a nominated project participant “Being Polish, I have had very little information about Travellers, only the negative things I have heard from people here. I got much more insight into the issues, and think that it is really good to have different trainers in this work.

Concluding comments None.

Contact details: Catherine Anne Kelly, Development Officer, Respecting and Connecting Communities, Donegal County Council, Community Cultural and Planning, Station Island, Lifford. 074 91 72230

86 Case Study 3 – Alphabet Quilt

Aim: To set up and establish a multi-ethnic women’s group in border area

Objective: Sharing communalities by making an Alphabet quilt together

Project Title: Multi- ethnic women’s group alphabet quilt

Applicant: Port na Fáilte

Partners: In-house

Target Area: South Donegal/Cross border

Timescale: Women’s group – on-going; Quilt – 4 months

Strategic Priority: to build sustainable and empowering relationships between women from different ethnic backgrounds

Brief description of the project: Eight women from different ethnic were recruited by the project officer to get together and make an alphabet quilt (identifying commonalities through the letters of the alphabet and portraying them through textile art). The group and quilt making was facilitated by a textile artist. After completion the quilt and the women travelled to be exhibited in various cross border locations, museums, galleries, PSCs, libraries, community centres etc.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? The project achieved the establishing of a multi-ethnic women’s group, who is still meeting and organising new projects and whose members and their families entered friendships. Women, who were previously experiencing isolation due to cultural/ethnic/social factors integrated with others and entered into social networks. The group also liaises now with the ‘Women of the World’ group in Enniskillen.

Achievements/progress to date: Group established, two project completed, a new one is being organised presently. Meetings ongoing.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? Women and their families built positive relationships with each other, regardless ethnicity and, importantly, social class (for example: a traveller family and an upper caste Nepal Hindu family).

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? Childcare payments were an obstacle.

Quote from the project promoter: I am so impressed with the way the women stitched and wove together their quilt and their friendships.

Quote from a nominated project participant: ‘I am proud, to be part of something so big (Traveller)

Concluding comments: Fabulous project, still ongoing and sustainable.

Contact details: Karin White, Port na Fáilte

Case Study 4 – FACES Project

Aim :To support people to engage more readily with those who are, at first glance, strange and different.

Objective : Setting up intercultural groups county wide were strangers look each other in the face and express their perception of the other in an artform.

Project Title: FACES

Applicant: Port na Fáilte

Partners : in-house

Target Area : Letterkenny, Donegal Town, Ballyshannon/Bundoran

Timescale : four months

Strategic Priority: To engage with the Other and the Strange, find commonalities and challenge and reflect on one’s perception of the Other.

Brief description of the project : People from different ethnicities and cultures were recruited in various locations and put into five groups. Each group was facilitated by an artist (glass-painting, mosaic, sculpture, textile art, drawing). Participants were asked to look each other in the face and find differences and similarities. They then learned how to express their perception of each other in a particular artform. Simultanously, another intercultural Theatre group was set up in Letterkenny to devise a play Face to Face. The art pieces were exhibited in the Regional Cultural Centre. At the launch the Port na Fáilte Theatre group ‘ Theatre of the Oppressed’ gave a performance: Face to Face.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Participants established positive relationships through this quite intimate experience and learned to look into the face of the Other. The final exhibition promoted a sense of pride of the intercultural group they had been part of.

Achievements/progress to date : Projected completed. The theatre group is on-going and had another performance recently. New lasting relationships between individuals have been established.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? To overcome barriers and fear and to look the other into the face, to challenge own perceptions and prejudice.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? Some people found it very difficult to look another person in the face and to be looked at. Some found it so unbearable that they dropped out. We reassured people who experienced difficulties and suggested that they stay in the group and completed a piece of art which did not involve looking at a face or to be looked at.

Quote from the project promoter : I did not realise how difficult it can be to look each other in the face. The outcome of this exhibition was amazing and proof of the high standard community art can achieve.

Quote from a nominated project participant; It was difficult and in the beginning embarrassing. But it got easier as we went on, and my partner had such beautiful eyes. We are good friends now.

Concluding comments: This project was difficult to set up and very labour intensive. People needed a lot of support. However, it was worthwhile, and most had a very rewarding experience and lasting friendships between people from different cultures were formed.

Contact details : Karin White, Port na Failte

88 Case Study 5 - Killaghtee LOL 1319

Aim: Refurbishment of Darney Orange Hall and Promote the identity of Killaghtee LOL to wider community.

Objective: Identification of activities that will promote the aims as above in the wider community.

Project Title : Refurbishment of Darney Orange Hall

Applicant: Killaghtee LOL No: 1319

Partners: Not Applicable

Target Area: South Donegal

Timescale: July 09 – 30 Nov 10

Strategic Priority:

Brief description of the project: Build new kitchen/toilet/entrance porch/stores

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes - complete

Achievements/progress to date: The above grant aid has aided and helped us complete this project for which we are thankful.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? Increased participation from across the community. The hall is now very comfortable and user friendly and we have now a source of running water which we did not have before.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with?

Trying to keep the hall sympathetic to the environment in which it is located was our only challenge and we are now delighted with the exterior finish as well as having bangor blue slates.

Quote from the project promoter:

Quote from a member of the community who benefited from the project:

“We have now a modern facility for the full benefit of the community of Darney that will be suitable to host events for both old and young alike.”

Concluding comments

Contact details: Andrew Deane, Calhame, Bruckless, Co Donegal Tel: 087-2799242

Case Study 6 - Ballinakillew LOL 454

Aim: To promote active participation in civil life

Objective: Facilitate and encourage the participation of minority groups in civil life in County Donegal.

Working to ensure that the voice of the marginalised and minority communities in Donegal is heard in terms of both the democratic and decision-making process.

Project Title: Refurbishment of Ballinakillew Orange Hall

Applicant: Ballinakillew LOL 454

Partners: none

Target Area: Ballinakillew

Brief description of the project: To make the hall fit for use and build confidence among the members to engage in community participation. The work included new roof with insulation, upgrade kitchen and upgrade toilets. By replacing roof and upgrading toilets and kitchen area it is hoped to be able to open the hall for the use of the wider community

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? yes

Achievements/progress to date: We now have a comfortable and welcoming hall where all members of the community can attend events and feel at ease and where the hall members have an increased confidence in promoting the use of the hall

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? The biggest impact on our group was the reaction of the majority community. We were overwhelmed with the messages of support we received and this really boosted the confidence of the members of our hall. It encouraged interaction and was a point of dialogue between both groups. Since this we have been able to remove shutters from the windows and this gives the hall a more inviting and open appearance to all.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? In the beginning we thought that we did not require planning but soon discovered otherwise! During the public process of planning not one objection was lodged and this was welcomed as a sign that our project had the approval of the community.

Quote from the project promoter Thanks to the funding we now have a building that is of use to everyone and not just to the hall members. Instead of just holding a few private meetings per annum we now have the capacity to offer the hall to others who have expressed an interest in hiring the hall.

Quote from a member of the community who benefited from the project: ‘’years ago there were some great nights held in the hall, but with it falling into disrepair that had to stop. It’s great to see the hall looking good again and look forward to seeing a dance or concert held there again, well done”.

Concluding comments I would like to express thanks for the funding and acknowledge the work and patience shown to us by those involved in looking after this project from the Peace III office. It has made a tremendous impact on the committee, not only by having the hall refurbished but also by the encouraging words of congratulations from the community in general. Contact details: Mark Bustard Derries Ballintra po Co. Donegal Email – [email protected]

90 Case Study 7 – Carricknahorna Orange Hall

Aim : Improved Facility and Increased confidence and activity in minority Protestant community

Objective: Refurbishment of Carricknahorna Hall

Project Title: Refurbishment of Carricknahorna Hall - Phase 1

Applicant: Carricknahorna Hall Committee

Partners: N/A

Target Area: Carricknahorna Hall is located in the district electoral division of Cavangarden, and also serves the neighbouring district electoral divisions of Cliff, Ballyshannon Rural, Ballintra-Ballyshannon and Ballintra-Donegal.

Timescale: July 2010 – April 2011

Strategic Priority: Challenge Attitudes towards Sectarianism and Racism P1 Reconciling communities 1.1 Building positive relations at the local level

Brief description of the project: The refurbishment of Carricknahorna Hall; and the promotion of the identity of the Orange Order in Carricknahorna to the wider community, in order to help the wider community accept and embrace diversity.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes

Achievements/progress to date: The refurbishment works, consisting of the replacement of the roof, ceiling and floor and rewiring and installation of heating in the building, and connection to the electricity supply network have been completed; and we also hosted a ‘Open Day’ which was well attended by all sections of the local community.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? In my opinion,the support for Orange Halls has increased confidence and has resulted in more willingness to engage with funding bodies and less anxiety and cynicism about community development.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? The biggest challenge, was keeping up with all the necessary paperwork, which gradually became easier as we got more confident/familiar with the whole process.

Quote from the project promoter “We now have a hall which we can be proud of and which has contributed to increased confidence within the protestant community”

Quote from a member of the community who benefited from the project: “Its great to see the hall once again being used for community events”

Concluding comments The support for Orange Halls has increased confidence and has resulted in more willingness to engage with funding bodies and less anxiety and cynicism about community development.

Contact details: [email protected]

91 Case Study 8 – Donegal Plantation 400 Genealogy Project

Aim To challenge attitudes towards sectarianism and racism

Objective Raising the level of consciousness that these issues do exist in Donegal.

Promoting a greater understanding of what constitutes sectarianism and racism so as to create a greater level of trust and tolerance within the county and on a cross border basis.

Project Title: Donegal Plantation 400- Four Centuries of Ulster-Scots Connections (DP400)

Applicant: Ulster-Scots Community Network

Partners: Moyne Ulster-Scots Association, South Donegal Ulster-Scots

Award: €17,025 in total

Target Area: South Donegal (Killybegs-Ballyshannon)

Timescale: April 2010-December 2010

Strategic Priority: Challenge Attitudes towards Sectarianism and Racism

Brief description of the project:

21/07/10 Presentation/Workshop-South Donegal’s genealogical links to the Plantation of Ulster. Dooran Orange Hall, Inver, Co. Donegal. This event consisted of a presentation by Co. Donegal genealogist and historian Helen Meehan, who delivered case studies of South Donegal families that owe their origins to the Plantation of Ulster. This event was well attended with around 60 participants from across the South Donegal area, from differing religious and cultural communities.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do?

This event was originally planned to promote greater understanding of the Plantation and its legacy, as well as a greater understanding of the Ulster-Scots community and their social heritage and ethnicity. The seminar was well received, and for many people who attended it was their first time they had been in the Orange Hall, although many of them have lived in the area all their lives. This was an important output of this event, as it provided an opportunity for local people to integrate and break down stereotypes and misconceptions. Many from the Roman Catholic community said that in future they would have no hesitancy about attending further events in an Orange Hall.

Achievements/progress to date:

A better understanding of the cultural and ethnic legacy of the Plantation of Ulster in County Donegal.

Quote from the project promoter

An excellent event addressed by an excellent speaker who is the foremost expert in South Donegal genealogical research. All those who attended were presented with enough information and advice to start to be able to trace their own family trees. This event had an important role in building positive relationships between the minority protestant community and their Roman Catholic neighbours.

Quote from a nominated project participant

A wide-ranging presentation explaining the origins of Planter families, from the landed elite through to the tenant farmers. An excellent depiction of how to go about researching your ancestry, and what evidence and resources are available. I’m sure there are people here who like me hadn’t realised that their families have been in this area for nearly 400 years.

Robbie Graham, Inver, Co. Donegal.

Concluding comments

A thought- provoking evening which brought different communities together in a warm, welcoming venue which had hitherto been regarded as the preserve of only one community.

Contact details:

Matthew Warwick Ulster-Scots Community Network, 68-72 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BB

Case Study 9 – Donegal Plantation 400 Schools Project

Aim To challenge attitudes towards sectarianism and racism

Objective Raising the level of consciousness that these issues do exist in Donegal.

Promoting a greater understanding of what constitutes sectarianism and racism so as to create a greater level of trust and tolerance within the county and on a cross border basis.

Project Title: Donegal Plantation 400- Four Centuries of Ulster-Scots Connections (DP400)

Applicant: Ulster-Scots Community Network

Partners: Moyne Ulster-Scots Association, South Donegal Ulster-Scots

Award: €17,025 in total

Target Area: South Donegal (Killybegs-Ballyshannon)

Timescale: April 2010-December 2010

Strategic Priority: Challenge Attitudes towards Sectarianism and Racism

Brief description of the project:

16/07/10 and 17/07/10 Donegal Plantation 400: Schools Workshops in Donegal Castle.

Workshops took place over two days with school children from Ballyshannon, Ballintra, Donegal Town and Killaghtee participating. (Over 160 children attended these workshops.) Children had the opportunity to take part in interactive workshops on Ulster-Scots language, the Highland bagpipes, the Lambeg Drum, Scottish Highland Dancing and Living History demonstrations.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do?

This event was originally planned to encourage positive cross community promotion of the Ulster-Scots cultural identity, and lead to greater understanding of the cultural legacy of the Plantation of Ulster. These two days were extremely successful with very positive feedback from the schools who participated. Children participating in the workshops were from Roman Catholic and Protestant, as well as some children from minority migrant communities from Eastern Europe and Asia. Positive feedback was also received from the tour guides resident at the Castle, who stated that tourists to the Castle on the days of the workshops really enjoyed an insight into the various Ulster-Scots cultural traditions.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area?

A better understanding of the cultural legacy/traditions that are the result of the Plantation of Ulster in County Donegal.

Quote from the project promoter

Two fantastic days of workshops with the school children enjoying taking part in Highland dance lessons, having a go on the Lambeg drum and Highland Bagpipes, as well as dressing up in Plantation era costume and armour. Donegal Castle was ideal setting for the workshops, as the very building was evidence of the Plantation and supported the information being presented to the children. For many, it was their first time in the Castle, their first time participating in the various activities although these traditions are practised weekly in the local South Donegal area.

Quote from a nominated project participant

“We really enjoyed our Ulster-Scots workshop in the Donegal Castle, it was lots of fun. The best part was learning about the different weapons they used. We learned a lot of things about Ulster-Scots culture and history we didn’t know before. Thank you so much for a lovely day out.” 2 nd , 3 rd , 4 th and 6 th Classes, Robertson National School, Ballintra, Co. Donegal.

Concluding comments

The interactive schools workshops were a resounding success, with the schools participating asking to have further workshops and events in the near future.

Contact details:

Matthew Warwick Ulster-Scots Community Network, 68-72 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BB

Case Study 10 – Donegal Plantation 400 Lecture

Aim To challenge attitudes towards sectarianism and racism

Objective Raising the level of consciousness that these issues do exist in Donegal.

Promoting a greater understanding of what constitutes sectarianism and racism so as to create a greater level of trust and tolerance within the county and on a cross border basis.

Project Title: Donegal Plantation 400- Four Centuries of Ulster-Scots Connections (DP400)

Applicant: Ulster-Scots Community Network

Partners: Moyne Ulster-Scots Association, South Donegal Ulster-Scots

Award: €17,025

Target Area: South Donegal (Killybegs-Ballyshannon)

Timescale: April 2010-December 2010

Strategic Priority: Challenge Attitudes towards Sectarianism and Racism

Brief description of the project:

16/06/10 The 1610 Plantation of Ulster and Donegal (Lecture/ presentation) in Cully Orange Hall, Laghey, Co. Donegal. This opening event examined the actual Plantation scheme in Co. Donegal and its legacy. This lecture was given by eminent Ulster historian Gordon Lucy, accompanied by relevant PowerPoint presentation. Also, a new Plantation booklet and exhibition was launched. Around 50 people were in attendance, from various religious backgrounds and cultural traditions from both sides of the border.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do?

This event was originally planned to promote greater understanding of the Plantation and its legacy. The lecture was well received, and those in attendance found it informative and objective in its assessment of the legacy of the Plantation of Ulster in County Donegal. After the lecture formally ended, there was much discussion on its content with the speaker answering informal questions for over an hour.

Achievements/progress to date:

A better understanding of the events and themes surrounding the Plantation of Ulster in County Donegal.

Quote from the project promoter

A reasonably well attended event, with attendees coming from across the South Donegal area and across the border as well. The new Donegal specific Exhibition on the Plantation and 40 page booklet was well received by all present.

Quote from a nominated project participant

96 A very well researched and presented talk by Gordon Lucy stimulated much discussion and re- evaluation of what many people thought they knew about the Plantation of Ulster. It was very encouraging to have people from across the religious divide present, and all concerned found the whole event thought provoking.- Norman Henry, Chair, South Donegal Ulster-Scots.

Concluding comments

A very enjoyable and informative event to launch the DP400 programme of events.

Contact details:

Matthew Warwick Ulster-Scots Community Network, 68-72 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BB

97 Case Study 11 – Inishowen Development Partnership - Interpretation Service

Aim: The aim of the project is to provide a locally based interagency service to support service providers in terms of accessing interpretation services.

Objective: The objective of the project is to work with organisations in County Donegal to ensure that there is an effective interpretation policy in place and the provision of staff training, this will also include the establishment and maintenance of a database of trained community interpreters.

Project Title: Interpreters Programme.

Applicant: Inishowen Development Partnership

Partners: County Development Board Members, Donegal Travellers Project, Community For a, PEACE III Cultural Diversity Steering Group, Social Inclusion Measures Group.

Funding Awarded: €69,754

Target Area: Countywide

Timescale: September 2010 – March 2011.

Strategic Priority: Promoting Equality & Embracing Diversity by developing institutional capacity amongst key service providers in terms of policy making and the planning and design of services so as to ensure that they are accessible to all members of the community.

Brief description of the project: The focus of the Interagency Interpretation Services project was on collaboration, consolidation and capacity building. The project involved exploring need, barriers, existing services and approaches. Capacity building for those who wanted to train as community and court interpreters and building capacity of existing interpreters and front line staff of service providers.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes, the project achieved what it had set out to do.

Achievements/progress to date: Feedback on the project resulted in an expanded view on when interpretation would be needed or would be beneficial. The benefits of a professional approach were very evident with clear boundaries. The project addressed issues of capacity building and awareness raising and the project provided a skills base that could be supported and built upon in the future.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? The delivery of this project has resulted in a number of impacts as the project offered an investment in human resources, offering capacity building, awareness raising, change of attitudes and removing historical barriers. The project resulted in a partnership being established, collaborative working, joined up interagency approaches, removing barriers, investing in cultural diversity, the development of capacity of organisations and individuals and opening doors and awareness raising. In all 77 participants attended this training with 70 achieving accreditation (91%). 47 people are accredited to OCN Level 4.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with?

Quote from the project promoter

The inability to communicate effectively in the language of a host country forms a major barrier to accessing and participating in service delivery and leads to misunderstanding, confusion, and ultimate poor outcomes for service users and providers. This, alongside attitudes and lack of cultural awareness has had the effect of frustrating the information and service provision. This project offered us a genuine insight to the difficulties faced by both the service providers and the users and offered us the opportunity to provide solutions to overcome social exclusion.

98 Quote from a nominated project participant: The project was an “eye opener”. It provided information on a range of options and highlighted the importance of professionalism. I would definitely be willing to participate in follow on workshops.

We have gained hugely with increased knowledge of language (terminology), the knowledge of cultural differences and the knowledge of ethical code needed for a professional attitude.

Concluding comments:

Contact details: Ms. Shauna Mc Clenaghan, Manager, Inishowen Development Partnership, St. Mary’s Road, Buncrana, Co. Donegal.

Phone 074 9362218

99 Case Study 12 - HSE Community Gardens Project

Aim: To challenge attitudes towards racism and sectarianism in County Donegal.

Objective: To develop intergenerational garden projects in areas close to the border with substantial cross community, ethnic minority and Traveller Population.

Project Title: Intergenerational Community Gardens Project

Applicant: HSE

Partners: Donegal Youth Service, Teagasc, Family Action Letterkenny, Lagan Community Health Forum, Inishowen Family Action Network, Local Care of the Aged Committees, Family Resource Centres, Donegal Travellers Project, HSE Health Promotion Unit.

Funding Awarded:

Target Area: 4 Areas in Donegal – Letterkenny, Moville, Raphoe & Ballybofey/Stranorlar

Timescale:

Strategic Priority: To challenge attitudes towards Sectarianism & Racism.

Brief description of the project: The project used allotments as a means of developing intergenerational activity in 4 areas in the county close to the border. The allotments provided opportunities for shared learning, healthy practical activity, and social contact not only between older people and young people but also amongst people from a wide range of social, cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes, the project achieved what it had set out to do.

Achievements/progress to date: 4 Community Gardens established in Letterkenny, Meadowhill in Raphoe, O’ Gara Villas in Moville and Ballybofey.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? The gardens definitely brought people together and enabled relationships to develop which were not there before. The more diverse the background of the participants, the more challenging it was to facilitate this. This challenge was greatest in Letterkenny and Raphoe where there are greater populations of people from diverse ethnic or religious backgrounds.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? It was challenging getting gardens developed in the available timeframe as new sites had to be identified, ownership transferred to the local community, people from diverse backgrounds engaged, plans drawn up with full consultation by all stakeholders, tender specifications prepared and tender processes completed before the garden infrastructure could be developed. Relationship building between people who would not normally relate takes time and the conduit which was the gardens had to be developed first to allow this to happen, so time was our big challenge. We managed to get the gardens developed within the timeframe but the peacebuilding work continues.

Quote from the project promoter “People here (Moville) are saying that they talk to people now who they probably passed in the street beforehand and just said hello to. Now they’re working alongside each other, they stop and talk. So that can all be build on – it is very much about bringing a community together. There’s the possibility, now that this is up and running, and people can see it and believe in it, you can get the school groups in, you can get the active age groups in, you can get women’s groups and mental health groups – you can get people from every background involved. And I think we’ll see that more and more as time goes on” – Nick North, Community Gardens Development Worker, HSE

100

Quote from a nominated project participant “This is the most enjoyable project I was ever involved in. It was fun as well as rewarding. As a community project it ticked all the boxes”. Mary Mc Kinney, Moville. “Everyone was involved in it, children, old people, the men. Everyone came out when the evening was good to get involved in this garden and there was so much fun trying to learn things”. Pauline Gamble, Raphoe

Concluding comments Community gardens are a very good way of breaking down barriers between people, as well as helping to create sustainable healthy communities.

Contact details: Maire O’ Leary, HSE, County Clinic, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

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Case Study 13 – Donegal County Childcare Committee – Naíonáin le Chéile Programme

Aim: The aim of the project was to provide early childhood educators working with children 0-5 years with a set of practical tools and resources to support their practice around the areas of diversity, identity and belonging through the creative mediums of play, art, music and educational drama.

Objective: The objective of which was to acknowledge the diversity of children and families and create a platform where young children can feel pride in their culture and to promote greater community integration and active participation in civil life in Donegal.

Project Title: Naíonáin le Chéile Programme.

Applicant: Donegal County Childcare Committee

Partners: None

Funding Awarded: €70,917.63

Target Area: Inishowen, Letterkenny and Donegal Town.

Timescale: August 2010 – March 2011.

Strategic Priority: Promote equality and embrace diversity.

Brief description of the project: The Naíonáin le Chéile Programme offers practical training, meaningful activities and appropriate educational resources for early childhood educators working with children 0-5 years around the areas of diversity, individuality, identity and belonging through the mediums of art and drama. The programme also included a range of workshops delivered through the mediums of art, creativity, storytelling, rhyme, and drama as a means of delivering practical and meaningful activities for children 0-6 years and their parents.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes

Achievements/progress to date: Naíonáin le Chéile is a tailored made programme that promotes equality and embraces diversity in the context of County Donegal for children aged 0-5 years attending early childhood settings. Naíonáin le Chéile Programme was delivered over two training days. The two day training sessions consisted of a Diversity Workshop, a Music/Puppet Workshop, a Storytelling/Drama Workshop and a workshop linking the other three workshops with Ireland’s quality and curriculum frameworks Síolta and Aistear.75 Early Childhood Educators in total attended the two day training in three locations in the county Inishowen, Ballybofey and Donegal Town. To support the training programme a resource pack was developed for each early years settings attending, it included the following: • Educator’s handbook as a reference tool for early childhood services • Two puppets caterpillar and hedgehog • A poster for the participants to display in their premises • A professional development certificate • A unique music cd developed and produced for the project • A multi lingual Phrase book for Early Childhood Settings • Magnet • Song/Puppet theatre Scripts • Parents Leaflet

70 children along with their parents attended workshops in the Donegal VEC Learning Bus.The Learning Bus delivered workshops to parents in Killybegs, Donegal Town, Dunfanaghy, Castlefin, Greencastle and Clonmany. The Learning Bus sessions utilised the mediums of art, creativity,

102 storytelling, rhyme, and drama as a means of delivering practical and meaningful activities for children 0-6 years and their parents.

A parent’s leaflet was available to each parent/carer that attended the Learning Bus sessions. The leaflet included information on the following: • A ‘how to’ guide to puppet-making • The Caterpillar’s story • Information on the importance of creative play for supporting the child’s identity and sense of belonging • The background to the Early Childhood Identity and Belonging Programme

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? Offering practical ideas and activities to address the common issue of diversity, prejudice and understanding difference among children 0- 5 years in early childhood settings.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? Designing and producing a 75 page Educators handbook, in time for training roll out in early February was a difficult task, and one in the end that was simply not realistic, it was decided in late January that the handbook was simply not going to be completed in time for the first role out of the training in Inishowen . However, DCCC managed to have digital copies of the handbook available to conduct the training.The Educators handbook along with the resource pack was completed in March and sent out to participants who completed the two day training course in February.

Also due to the project specialist team having no specific early childhood expertise; DCCC had to develop the element of training that linked the training to Siolta and Aistear. DCCC therefore not only developed this section of Siolta and Aistear of the training, but also had to attend each training course and deliver the material on linking NCL to Siolta and Aistear. Having initially set out to have an advisory role within the project, the lack of early years experience within the project specialist’s team meant a considerable amount of time and effort from the DCCC team had to be allocated out of an already over- loaded schedule to ensure the resource was suitable for the early childhood sector.

Quote from the project promoter: Early Childhood settings in Donegal should aim to commit to and develop the provision of early childhood education, based on ensuring inclusion and equality for all children, specifically endeavouring to educate children in understanding and accepting difference. It is hoped this programme continues to grow and develop and will be of relevance to the early childhood settings in Donegal, as well as helping others interested in developing innovative and creative ways of promoting understanding and a sense of identity and belonging amongst young children.

Quote from a nominated project participant: Really enjoyed the two days and found the tutors really helpful, beneficial and friendly. The training offered practical ideas that I can go and implement in my service. Thank you for a lovely two days.

Concluding comments: Going forward DCCC feels that there is a need for the Naíonáin le Chéile Programme training sessions to be made available to all early childhood educators by providing workshops on days and times suitable for full time staff, as well as ensuring the programme encourages participants to engage meaningfully with parents.

There is also a need for continued evaluation of the programme. Of the participants who took part in the pilot, there should be a review of how they have used the training and resource pack within their settings, and also a continued evaluation of the full roll out to ensure the programme evolves to meet the needs of all early childhood educators and the children in their care within Donegal.

Contact details: Avril Sweeney, 10-11 St Columba’s Terrace, High Road, Letterkenny, Donegal.

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Case Study 14 – Gaelscoil Cois Feabhail

Aim: The aim of the project was to promote greater community integration, equality and embracing of diversity in Donegal with a small but targeted technology programme.

Objective: The projects objective was to promote a greater understanding of Protestant and Catholic cultural identity and to create opportunities for social interaction between children from the two communities.

Project Title: The Inishowen Integration through Technology Project

Applicant: Gaelscoil Cois Feabhail

Partners: St. Columb’s Church of Ireland School

Funding Awarded: €20,000

Target Area: Moville and East Inishowen from Shrove to Muff and west as far as Clonmany and Gleneely.

Timescale: June 2009 – February 2011

Strategic Priority: To challenge attitudes towards racism and sectarianism.

Brief description of the project: The project developed sustainable relationships by strengthening cross community links in East Inishowen through the creation of long term relationships between the two schools – St. Columb’s Church of Ireland schools and Gaelscoil Cois Feabhail which is Catholic – using information technology tools, such as interactive whiteboards, websites, laptops and email.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? The following summarises the achievements of the project:

1) Infrastructure in place – Through the PEACE III investment, each school was provided with the infrastructure, tools and skills. 2) Opportunities for building relations – The feedback concluded that the project had a positive impact on cross community relationships in the region on a long term sustainable basis.

Achievements/progress to date: The project provided tools and skills for each classroom and provided the necessary training for staff to operate the new technology. A programme of joint activities for both staff and children was rolled out which provided opportunities for communication between the two schools. The project also saw the development of websites for each school with links between them leaving a legacy to the project.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? The project had a positive impact on cross community relationships in the region. It also impacted positively in addressing levels of disadvantage in the region by providing a major IT boost, which enhanced the children’s opportunities in advance of second level.

In addition, the media coverage of the official launch of the project by the President of Ireland, Mary Mc Aleese, was noted as one of the key highlights of the project. It offered a significant platform to showcase how two small schools could achieve an alliance that benefited the children, teachers, parents and board members. More than 166,000 people heard or read about the schools involved.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? Adhering to the needs and constraints of the PEACE III funding caused some concern. The IT procurement and installation caused some delays, however taking more time ensured a more cost effective use of resources.

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Quote from the project promoter:

Staff member quote “a worthwhile experience, that fostered great relationships between two schools”.

Comment from a board member “I felt that overall it was a very worthwhile venture and the launch was an overwhelming success. The children got a lot more benefit from just playing together and being left to chat, the constant contact of the joint venture build up an excellent rapport between the two schools. I was very happy to be part of the project”.

Quote from a nominated project participant: Pupil member quote “it was excellent to meet people from other schools”.

Concluding comments:

Contact details : Gráinne Nic Robhartaigh, Principal, Gaelscoil Cois Feabhail.

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Case Study 15 – Scoil Bhríde – Convoy Schools Partnership

Aim: The overall aim of the project was to foster stronger cross community links by providing opportunities for children from two local schools to come together in shared activity.

Objective: The objective of which was to strengthen cross community links by running a series of drama workshops in both schools culminating in a public performance in a theatre.

Project Title: Convoy Schools Partnership

Applicant: Scoil Bhríde

Partners: Convoy Joint National School.

Funding Awarded: €14,000

Target Area: Convoy, Co. Donegal.

Timescale: January to September 2010.

Strategic Priority: To challenge attitudes towards racism and sectarianism.

Brief description of the project: The project involved running a series of drama workshops in both Scoil Bhríde and Convoy Joint National School. The project involved the research, development and writing of a script and the development of an original piece of theatre culminating in staging a public performance in a theatre.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes the project set out what it achieved to do within the timeline and budget available.

Achievements/progress to date: The successful delivery of a series of workshops in both schools. The schools worked in close collaboration with each other delivering a quality piece of drama in an established theatre.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? The most significant impact of the project was the relationships that were formed during and after the process. The process provided a safe space for new friendships to be formed and these friendships will provide a legacy to the project.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with?

Quote from the project promoter: “ The project provided funding for an Arts based project between two cross community schools in the Convoy area, this has resulted in newly formed friendships through the process of engagement. It was amazing to see the children from different schools in their school uniforms playing so comfortably with each other in the playground”.

Quote from a nominated project participant:

Concluding comments:

Contact details: Elizabeth Mc Gee, Scoil Bhríde, Convoy.

106 Case Study 16 – Port Na Fáilte Walk & Talk

Aim: To integrate Asylum Seekers and members of the wider community in Donegal Town

Objective: To facilitate a series of guided weekly walks in South Donegal with participants from Cliffview Hostel and members of the wider community

Project Title : Walk and Talk

Applicant : Port na Fáilte

Partners : in-house

Target Area: South Donegal

Timescale : 10 weeks

Strategic Priority : Integration of Asylum Seekers within the wider community, dismantling of prejudice.

Brief description of the project: We recruited residents of Cliffview Hostel and members of the wider community to participate in 10 weekly guided walks through the Blue Stack Mountains, Bundoran Cliffs and Cashelard. Local people, immigrants and Asylum Seekers together learned about their old and new home, environment, geography, history, cultures and traditions, while walking together to a beautiful environment and talking with each other. After each walks, all participants had sandwiches and tea together. During the final walk, reporters from the newspaper and local radio station came with us and afterwards published positive media re asylum seekers.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Participants talked to each other and got to know each other’s cultures, while experiencing the environment and culture they now had in common. A sense of place was established and relationships, not only between people, but also between people and their environment. Prejudices were deconstructed.

Achievements/progress to date: Project completed, attitudes of the wider community towards Asylum Seekers improved.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? Creation of positive relationships by experiencing a beautiful environment and exercise.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? Asylum Seekers would be moved on to different hostels, thus they are often unable to build on the positive relationships with the local community. Therefore, the project should be repeated on a regular basis.

Quote from the project promoter: This project worked on many levels: It provided exercise for people who often suffer from depression and trauma. It introduced the beauties of their new home, creating a sense of place and gave people a chance to get to know each other away from the stark reality of the hostel.

Quote from a nominated project participant: We walked together, got to know each other and got an idea of the history of the place. We shared experiences and shared information. For the people to get out of the hostel and get a bit of relief from the tension some of them are experiencing. Concluding comments : Will be continued, hopefully. Contact details: Karin White, Port na Fáilte

107 Case Study 17 – Smashing Times Theatre Company – Acting for Change

Aim: An innovative arts programme using drama and theatre to promote reconciliation and mutual understanding within Donegal and on a cross-community and cross-border basis.

Objective: 1. Outreach Programme and Five Taster Drama Workshops

2. Ten Storytelling Workshops to encourage the sharing of people’s experiences of the legacy of conflict and to promote peace and reconciliation with cross-community and cross-border participation 3. Ten Anti-Racism and Anti-Sectarianism Workshops through Drama with cross-community and cross-border participation 4. Five Equality Workshops through Drama 5. Professional Performance on Tour –with invited cross-community and cross-border participation and all performances followed by post-show discussions to discuss issues raised 6. One Day ‘Reconciliation and Equality Seminar through Drama’ with cross-border and cross- community participation 7. Final Report and Evaluation printed in booklet and web-based format.

Project Title: Acting for Change

Applicant: Smashing Times Theatre Company

Partners: The Corrymeela Community /Irish Peace Centres

Funding Awarded: €106,308

Target Area: East Donegal and the border areas

Timescale: June 2010 to February 2011

Strategic Priority:

Brief description of the project: The aim is to use drama and theatre activities to engage participants from a cross-border and cross community perspective; bringing people together to explore themes and issues that are a consequence of the conflict in Northern Ireland and the Southern Border counties; with a view to addressing levels of segregation in Donegal and across the border and to promote equality, diversity and the coming together of different communities in mutual understanding and respect. The work aims to use the methodologies of the arts with specific reference to drama and theatre in order to challenge and overcome sectarianism and racism; to promote equality and diversity; to encourage active community integration within Donegal and on a cross border basis; to support conflict resolution and mediation and to support cross-community and cross- border collaboration.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? The following are the project outputs These workshops took place in the following places; Ten Storytelling Workshops

108 • Inishowen Libraries, Buncrana, 22 nd September 2010 (10 women – 5 from Inishowen, Co. Donegal and 5 from Derry) • Raphoe Community Resource Centre, 4 th October 2010, (9 women – 6 Catholic and 3 Protestant) • Millford over 65s Active Retirement, 27 th November 2010 (40 participants from both traditions) • Loreto Convent, Letterkenny, 21 st and 22 nd March 2011 (4 workshops with 70 girls, mainly Catholic) • Carndonagh Community College, 29 th March 2011 (3 workshops with 57 students) Ten Anti-Racism and Anti-Sectarianism Workshops • Donegal Youth Services, Letterkenny, 15 th June 2010 (6 boys and 4 girls) • Doneyloop Community Centre, 15 th June 2010 (7 boys and 10 girls) • Youth Reach Letterkenny, 16 th September 2010 (9 young people) • Raphoe Community Resource Centre, 16 th September 2010 (3 male and 4 female) • Carndonagh Community School, 17 th September 2010 (8 girls and 10 boys) • Crana College, Buncrana (13 boys, 3 girls and 3 teachers) • Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana, 6 th October 2010 (12 boys and 8 girls) • Youth Reach Lifford, 11 th November 2010 (4 girls and 5 boys) • Youth Reach Buncrana, 23 rd September 2010 (17 boys and 12 girls and 3 teachers) • Moville Community School, 14 th October 2010 (13 girls and 4 boys) Five Equality Workshops • Atlantic View CDP, 7 th October 2010 (31 women) • Deele College, Raphoe, 16 th February 2011 (12 girls and 7 boys) • St Columbus, Stranolar, 15 th February 2011 (Morning - 7 girls and 10 boys, Afternoon - 9 girls and 10 boys) • Mulroy College, Millford, 10 th February 2011 (12 girls and 6 boys) Five Taster Workshops • Youth Democracy Group, 27 th July 2010 (6 men and 11 women) • The Forge Family Resource Centre, Pettigo Men’s Group, 11th October 2010 (12 men, 2 Protestant and 10 Catholic) • Thornhill College, Culmore, Co. Derry, 14 th October 2010 (7 women) • The Forge Family Resource Centre, Pettigo – Meeting and Storytelling Interview, 22 nd November 2010 (15 men) Project Fair, Lifford, Co.Donegal, various Peace III funded groups. October 12 th 2010 approx 30 people asked for information

Professional Performance On Tour – Shattering Glass

An original performance which explored stories of ‘The Troubles’ and hopes and dreams for the future, written by Gillian Hackett, Mary Moynihan and Paul Kennedy and directed by Mary Moynihan. All performances were followed by post-show discussions with guest speakers. The performances took place at the following venues;

• Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey – Tuesday 11 th January 2011 at 8.30pm • Ramelton Town Hall, Ramelton – Wednesday 12 th January 2011 at 8pm • Colgan Community and Resource Centre, Carndonagh – Thursday 13 th January 2011 at 8pm • Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny – Friday 14 th January 2011 at 8pm

The performance was made up of a presentation of three pieces of short drama, 2 monologues and 1 dramatic sequence based on narratives collected throughout interviews and focus groups focused upon the Troubles.

A performance of the monologue Crossings from Shattering Glass was subsequently delivered in two schools – Cranna College, Buncrana on February 15 th 2011 in the morning and Scoile Muire, Buncrana in the afternoon.

An extensive publicity campaign was conducted with flyers and posters given to each venue for distribution. All local, regional and national media were contacted and many of them covered the performance. Internet sites were again used to promote the tour and the company’s web page and Facebook page were maximised to promote the performance. The company also drew upon the

109 individuals participating in the workshops to promote the performance and bring friends and family to see the show.

Reconciliation and Equality Through Drama Seminar

This seminar was a cross-community, cross-border and cross-cultural day of exploration and celebration which took place on Friday 14 th January 2011, 9.30am – 4.30pm at the Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny. The aim was to increase opportunities for participating groups to link and develop joint strategies through workshops, discussions and networking. The day featured an improvised collage performance on themes of reconciliation and equality.

The seminar programme was as follows; • Opening remarks – Cllr. Dessie Larkin, Chairperson of the Donegal CDB Peace and Reconciliation Partnership • Speakers ‘Issue Based Participatory Theatre: Working Drama Models’ – Freda Manweiler and Mary Moynihan, Smashing Times Theatre Company • Workshop ‘The Mask of Four Temperaments’ – Raymond Keane, Barabbas Theatre Company • Workshop ‘Theatre and Peace Building in an International Context’ – Idan Meir, Combatants for Peace, Israel/Palestine • Workshop ‘Acting for Change, Anti-Sectarianism and Anti-Racism Drama Workshop Models’ – Maria McBride, Smashing Times Theatre Company

The seminar was promoted in a similar manner to both the workshops and the performances with local, regional and national media contacted. A radio interview with facilitator Idan Meir and the project co- ordinator was aired on RTE Radio 1 Arts Show in addition to cover in regional newspapers. Using new social networking sites such as Facebook and internet sites in addition to Smashing Times Theatre Company’s extensive contacts was fully utilized. Direct phone contact was made to youth and community groups and artists to promote all activities.

Achievements/progress to date: We have completed the project and fulfilled all the outputs we proposed we would achieve.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? The project provided people an opportunity to talk about the conflict and the legacy of the conflict. Workshop participants expressed how they enjoyed having an opportunity to discuss their experiences through the workshops and the post show discussions.

Young people engaging with drama workshops around equality and anti racism and anti sectarianism provided them with a different perspective on attitudes to the issues it also allowed them to discuss the issues in an open forum and hear each others opinions and then the opinions of the facilitator in relation to the issues of equality. This is something not often thought in schools.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? Not many really it was challenging to address the silences which are present in Donegal regarding the legacy of the conflict however drama has a great way of opening people up to discussion and through the processes people shared their experiences.

Quote from the project promoter: It was great to have the opportunity to work with communities in Donegal and the border counties –

I remember particularly presenting a performance of Crossings to transition year students in a school in Buncrana and the responses of the students to the story presented (an ex-combatant talks about his journey from violent action to peace). The discussion after the performance with the actor and a community relations worker from Derry/Londonderry on the issues presented was very animated. The Transition year co-ordinator spoke with me when the students had left and said - that was great as many of these students come from very republician families and are vulnerable to getting involved in violent activity, it was good for them to hear different attitudes and to have a discussion on attitude.....they will benefit from this.

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Quote from a nominated project participant ‘I think it was a good way to discuss things that we don’t really talk about in school.’

‘I enjoyed when we told different stories of the troubles and now I understand it more.’

‘I learned how to express your feelings in front of others.’

‘I liked it because everyone co-operated and were very honest with their answers.’

‘Great workshop and it was great the way the facilitator included all the participants in the activities.’

‘Enjoyed the workshop, good activities; everyone was involved and felt included

Concluding comments

Contact details: Freda Manweiler Smashing Times Theatre Company Coleraine House Coleraine Street Dublin 7 01/8656613

111 Case Study 18 – Donegal Vocational Educational Committee – Mediation Services

Aim: To support conflict resolution and mediation

Objective: To deliver an impartial and professional mediation conflict resolution service in Donegal, which was accessible to all target groups affected by the border and the conflict including ethnic minority and Traveller Community.

Project Title:

Applicant: Donegal VEC

Partners: HSE, Gardaí, Community Organisations.

Funding Awarded: €425,194

Target Area: County Donegal.

Timescale: June 2009 – November 2010

Strategic Priority: To support conflict resolution and mediation

Brief description of the project: The project set out to develop a framework for the delivery of a mediation service in Donegal. In addition, the VEC would deliver accredited MII Mediation Course, the delivery of accredited Conflict Coaching course, local research into the needs of organisations around mediation, the hosting of a conference and an awareness raising campaign of mediation and finally, individual work with organisations embedding the concept of mediation.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes the project achieved what it had set out to do.

Achievements/progress to date:

The VEC undertook a short piece of research identifying the mediation needs of organisations and began to explore the development of a framework for its delivery including specialised training for members of the mediation network.

Two Accredited (MII) courses in Conflict Resolution and Mediation were delivered which trained mediators who would make themselves available to work in the county in support of the delivery of the conflict resolution and mediation service. Two courses in Conflict Coaching were also delivered – in total 60+ people participated from a range of community, statutory and voluntary organisations. A conference aimed at promoting the value of mediation as a tool for resolving conflict was held as well as individual sessions with senior management personnel in organisations with a view to raising awareness around mediation. An additional conference on Restorative Practices was held given the high level of interest in this area of conflict resolution.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area?

• 60+ trained mediators and conflict coaches available in the county. • Significant level of awareness in community, voluntary and statutory organisations regarding alternative methods of dispute resolution

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with?

Given the current economic conditions prevailing in the county is was a challenge to encourage organisations to release staff to participate in the mediation and conflict coaching course and also to attend the awareness raising sessions. The VEC liaised individually with organisations, promoting the programme and encouraging participation.

112 Following the courses, those trained felt they needed significant opportunities to practise the skills they had learned in advance of facilitating real disputes. This will be explored further in the roll out of Phase II of the PECE III Action Plan.

Quote from the project promoter: The Project has been valuable in introducing alternative dispute resolution methods to a wide range of organisations and there is a solid core of expertise in the county of people who are committed to and have the skills in using mediation and conflict coaching to work with conflict.

Quote from a nominated project participant:

Concluding comments

Contact details: Ms. Cróna Gallagher, Adult Education Officer, VEC Adult Education Services, Ard O’ Donnell, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. Telephone 074 9161570

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Case Study 19 – Donegal Vocational Education Committee - Restorative Practices

Aim: This proposal is aimed at providing skills in Alternative Dispute Resolution and Restorative Practices at grassroots level in communities in County Donegal

Objective: To develop a culture of conflict management, resolution and mediation within the youth population in the county, especially in areas where there are issues around racism and sectarianism.

Project Title: Introduction to Restorative Practices and Conflict Resolution to the Youth Population.

Applicant: Co Donegal VEC

Partners: HSE West

Funding Awarded: €79,894

Target Area: The programme was delivered through a network of Youth Organisations/Clubs/Groups/Projects throughout Co Donegal.

Timescale: June 2009 – December 2010

Strategic Priority: Challenge Attitudes towards Sectarianism and Racism

Brief description of the project: Develop Cross Community Programme on Sectarianism and Racism. Mediation Training for Youth Workers, volunteer Youth Leaders, Community Leaders, voluntary Community Workers. Design and development of courses, specifically FETAC. Enhance Young people’s community involvement and engagement of young people in service provision, to develop youth engagement, a conflict resolution agenda believing they can make a difference in their own lives and the lives of other young people.

Increased levels of consciousness/awareness/understanding, Create increased levels of trust and tolerance. All Youth Club/Group Leaders upskilled to a restorative way of working with Young People, and resolving conflicts restoratively. Increased levels of consciousness/awareness/understanding of conflict resolution and mediation. Provide an opportunity for Youth Organisations, Projects, Clubs and Groups to develop a theoretical and practical ethos of trust, tolerance, equality, embracing diversity, recognising commonalities within the youth population, ensuring that the voice of marginalised young people is heard in the decision making processes.

Project Outputs/Did the project achieve what it had set out to do? Yes

Achievements/progress to date: 25 Youth Leaders completed Conflict Resolution, Mediation and Restorative Practices Course (FETAC Level 6). Second FETAC Course delivered due to increased demand for 10 Youth Leaders. 3 non accredited awareness workshops in Conflict Resolution & Restorative for young people held in 3 different areas in Co Donegal; Letterkenny, Donegal Town and Carndonagh, 32 young people attended.

In Partnership with HSE West, Surveys and Workshops were completed with young people in 4 areas; Moville, Bundoran, Killybegs and Falcarragh. 207 Young people attended the 4 resulting Agenda Days/Workshops and Conference. A “Café Culture” (interactive discussion) style Conference was held for 5 th March 2011 in Letterkenny. 4 Agenda Days were planned developed, designed and delivered by young people. Conflict Resolution Programme was integrated into programme design. 4 Reports on the Agenda Days and Events were written and circulated.

What in your opinion was the most significant impact of the project on your target group/area? The commencement of embedding an ethos and philosophy of mediation and restorative practices within the youth population and those adults who support their development. The building of capacity

114 within young people towards active citizenship, engagement, tolerance and trust within their own community.

What Challenges/issues arose during the process? If any and how were they dealt with? An amount of administration.

Quote from the project promoter: The Project was aimed at young people and supportive adults in order to plan for future generations in areas of social equity and fairness, community vibrancy, participatory decision making, and accountability in governance. Young People and Adult Volunteers working as Leaders in Youth Clubs/Groups/Organisations gained a qualification on Conflict Management and Mediation. Participants obtained skills and knowledge in interculturalism, equality, conflict resolution, cultural identity, respect and understanding, stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination. The Young People and Adult Volunteers are now community advocates and leaders for their respective communities and interest groups.

Quote from a nominated project participant:

Please see a paraphrased testimonies from two of the Course participants below:

“The course was excellently coordinated and everyone was kept up to date on the development of the programme throughout. And the course tutors were really fantastic, so engaging and knowledgeable. The ethos of conflict resolution and mediation is definitely relevant to working with young people. Since beginning the course I have tried hard to engage all in the restorative theories and ideologies and if the programme runs again in September I will definitely recommend others to sign up! I know that the young people here have noticed a difference in the way troubles are dealt with and even some parents have commented on this. I have conducted 3 successful mediations since beginning the course. I can honestly say that I would not have felt anywhere near as comfortable dealing with these situations had I not had this training”.

“It was a well run course, very informative and has helped me deal with conflict in a more passive way and it improved my listening skills and how I engage with other people. I would recommend this course to all ages to develop good life skills”

Concluding comments: Attendance at the course was almost 100%. This was facilitated by 2 courses running which allowed for attendance at the other venue whenever there was a problem. This attendance is indicative of the interest of the participants and their commitment to the course and the group. At the end of the course, it was felt, that most of the participants would be capable of becoming very effective mediators in a more formal setting and be able to use the skills learnt within the youth work setting.

Contact details: Paddy Muldoon Youth Officer Co Donegal VEC Tel: 9161505 / 0879213299 email: [email protected]

115 APPENDIX 4 - FINANCIAL SUMMARY

Total budget Actions Budget Delivery Mechanism drawn down

Total budget Targeted Strategic Interventions The Workplace 100,000.00 93,077.00 Procurement Young People 216,000.00 233,080.60 Partner delivery

Older People 200,000.00 167,228.54 Partner Delivery / Grant Scheme Single Identity groups including Protestant Community 416,000.00 458,271.95 Grant Scheme/Partner Ethnic Minority Communities and Travellers 252,150.00 288,640.04 Partner Delivery / Procurement Building Positive relationships between Travellers and settled community 182,550.00 162,229.33 Partner Delivery Ex-prisoners and their families 289,400.00 0.00 N/A Ex-Servicemen 70,000.00 145,594.22 Procurement Collaboration between Churches 124,030.00 113,014.83 Grant Scheme Greater Interaction between Schools 230,000.00 223,456.76 Partner Delivery

Single Location Type Interventions Small Grant Scheme 1,173,333.00 1,013,317.92 Grants Scheme

Cross Cutting Interventions Independent Reporting Scheme for sectarian/racist incidents Anti Racism/Diversity Plan & Prog of training &support for service providers 252,767.00 148,686.78 Partner Delivery Interpretation Service for Ethnic Minorities (IDP) 0.00 69,190.19 Partner Delivery Multi Annual Awareness Raising Campaign & Models of Good Practice - Volunteerism 280,110.00 247,461.80 Partner Delivery Dev capacity of partnership 15,000.00 1,203.97 Partner Delivery Mediation & Conflict Resolution service 260,000.00 137,298.19 Partner Delivery Sharing of Learning 30,000.00 31,302.88 Mgt Support

116 Development of Peace III Action Plan 12,000.00 12,009.44 Mgt Support 0.00 Shared Public Spaces Support Measures 0.00 Pettigo/ Tullyhommon 122,250.00 131,594.00 Procurement Lifford/ Strabane 20,000.00 19,980.04 Partner Delivery 0.00 Programme Development, Management and Implementation 0.00 Prog Dev & Admin Support 450,670.00 470,394.59 Mgt Support 0.00 Monitoring & Evaluation 0.00 - Monitoring & Evaluation 41,340.00 0.00 N/A Procurement (GAA, Smashing Times, An Grianan) 0.00 329,655.00 Procurement Procurement (DSP & DCCC) 0.00 140,597.63 Procurement Slippage to date 100,314.30 0.00 TOTALS: 4,737,600.00 4,637,285.70

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