Labour MEPs in the European Parliament today successfully pushed through a motion to extend the EU's contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process under the auspices of the PEACE II Programme and other Structural Funds' Operational Programmes.
Richard Corbett, Labour MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber, said:
"This is a real triumph.
"Many of us fought tooth and nail to secure this €60 million for the two years. It is clear that the EU's commitment to Northern Ireland remains as strong as it was in 1986 when the International Fund for Ireland was established.
"It is imperative our work in Northern Ireland continues. It is consistent with the historic role of the EU that we continue to play our part in building peace and reconciliation.
"This €60 million is recognition by the countries of Europe of the efforts of the people of Northern Ireland and their neighbours to create a new and more prosperous future."
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