The Resilient Neighbours Project is a major new cross‑border initiative designed to enhance emergency planning, response and community resilience across the border region. It will bring together emergency services, local authorities, voluntary organisations and communities to improve coordination and cooperation before, during and after major incidents related to severe weather, cyber threats, infrastructure, industry and public health.
Delivered by Monaghan County Council, in partnership by Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, in association with the Irish Government’s Office of Emergency Planning and Northern Ireland’s Executive Office the project is supported through €2.3m in PEACEPLUS funding managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) – European Funding.
Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers TD said the Resilient Neighbours Project recognises that close co-operation and joint measures are essential to ensuring a coordinated and effective response across borders.
“By strengthening multi-agency partnerships and embedding cross-border community engagement, it will create benefits for people and communities that extend well beyond the lifetime of the project.”
An Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council, Cllr PJ O’Hanlon, said the initiative recognises the vital role that local people play in supporting one another during times of crisis. “By providing training, tools and support, it will empower communities across Monaghan to be more prepared, more connected and more resilient.”
SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “This project addresses a critical need for stronger cooperation in emergency planning across the border. By bringing together key agencies, partners and communities, this project will help improve preparedness, reduce risk and support a more coordinated response when emergencies arise. We are delighted to support this important work through the PEACEPLUS Programme and look forward to the positive impact it will have for border communities.”
Finance Minister John O’Dowd MLA described the initiative as “a positive example of cross-border cooperation”, adding that it will provide the opportunity to tackle jurisdictional differences in emergency planning protocols. “It will allow key agencies to work seamlessly together when it matters most, ensuring our communities are both protected and resilient.”
Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cllr Barry McElduff, said that the project represents a major step forward in strengthening how the stakeholders work together to prepare for and respond to emergencies along the border region, ensuring a more consistent and effective approach that creates safer and more resilient communities.
“PEACEPLUS funding provides a valuable opportunity to support organisations, partners and communities to meet the challenges of today and adapt confidently to those that lie ahead. I wish to thank the Special EU Programmes Body and all project partners for their commitment and collaboration in bringing this important initiative forward.”
Over the next three years, the project will research and evaluate current emergency management structures and processes; develop learning and development opportunities for more than 20 emergency responder and partner agencies. It will also provide tailored training and resources to improve cross-border co-ordination and enhance community resilience.
The launch of the project was attended by representatives from SEUPB, The Executive Office, the Office of Emergency Planning and included a keynote address by Dr Andrew McClelland, Research Fellow at Alliance Manchester Business School, in addition to contributions from project funders, partners and key stakeholders.
