As guests of the Anglo Irish Friendship Group, the team from Kilcooley Women’s Centre had the privilege of stepping into the heart of Irish politics—the iconic Dáil Éireann in Dublin. This was no ordinary visit; it was a momentous occasion where we were hosted by Frank Feighan TD, who welcomed us to the members’ dining room for an unforgettable dinner. The day was filled with meaningful conversations, reflections on our journey, and a shared vision for the future of cross-border collaboration and reconciliation.

A Warm Welcome and a Shared Vision

The day began with a warm welcome from Frank Feighan TD, who has long been a champion of cross-border cooperation and community development. As we gathered in the members’ dining room, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and mutual respect. The highlight of the evening was the opportunity to meet with the Irish Tánaiste, Simon Harris TD who took the time to engage with our team and discuss the vital work being done at Kilcooley Women’s Centre. We were delighted to extend an invitation to visit the centre and the city of Bangor in the near future.

The conversation included the importance of cross-border relations, particularly in the context of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As a centre based in Northern Ireland, we have always understood the power of collaboration across communities and borders. The Tánaiste echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how crucial it is for organisations like ours to continue building bridges and fostering understanding in a post-Brexit landscape.

Celebrating 30 Years of Empowerment

This year marks a significant milestone for Kilcooley Women’s Centre—our 30th anniversary. For three decades, we have been a beacon of hope and empowerment for women and families in the Kilcooley estate and beyond. From providing essential services to advocating for social change, our centre has been at the forefront of community development.

During the dinner, we shared stories of our journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of the community. We spoke about the challenges we’ve faced, the triumphs we’ve celebrated, and the countless lives we’ve touched along the way. The Tánaiste and Frank Feighan TD both commended our resilience and dedication, acknowledging the transformative impact of our work.

Looking Ahead: Peace Plus and Reconciliation

As we look to the future, we are excited about the opportunities presented by the Peace Plus programme and the new Reconciliation Fund initiatives set to launch in 2025. These programmes represent a renewed commitment to peacebuilding and reconciliation across the island of Ireland, with a specific cross border focus on working with Leitrim and Sligo.

During our discussions, we explored how Kilcooley Women’s Centre can play a pivotal role in these initiatives. Our plans include expanding our cross-border projects into the Shared Island initiatives, building greater collaboration with community groups in the Republic of Ireland, and developing new programmes that promote dialogue, understanding, and healing.

The Tánaiste expressed strong support for our vision, recognizing the importance of grassroots organisations in driving meaningful change. Frank Feighan TD also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting our efforts, ensuring that the voices of communities like Kilcooley are heard at the highest levels of government.

A Day to Remember

As the evening drew to a close, we left the Dáil with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. This was more than just a meeting; it was a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of building relationships across borders.

We are deeply grateful to the 2 franks. – Frank Shivers for the introductions, Frank Feighan TD for his hospitality and to the Tánaiste for taking the time to engage with us. Their support is a reminder that the work we do at Kilcooley Women’s Centre is not just about our community—it’s about contributing to a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary and look ahead to the opportunities of Peace Plus and the Reconciliation Fund, we are more determined than ever to continue our mission of empowerment, peacebuilding, and reconciliation. Together, we can build a future where every community thrives, and every voice is heard.

Here’s to the next 30 years and beyond!