Welsh Government
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Finance Minister and Irish President celebrate success of the Ireland/Wales Co-operation programme
Finance and Government Business Minister Jane Hutt recently welcomed the Irish President Michael D Higgins to an INTERREG exhibition at Swansea University showcasing the benefits of the Ireland-Wales Co-operation programme.
The President, as part of his two day visit to Wales, and Minister met representatives of EU projects funded by the Ireland/Wales Co-operation programme 2007–2013.
The programme supports Irish Welsh co-operation projects to exchange best practice and provide solutions to economic, environmental and social challenges across our maritime border.
The 2007-2013 Ireland-Wales programme has invested €48 million of EU funds (£41m) for 41 high quality co-operative projects, driving a total investment of €70m (£58m).
Jane Hutt said:
“The Ireland-Wales programme has helped build very effective relationships and created significant benefits for our Irish and Welsh communities. It is wonderful to welcome the Irish President here today to meet and hear first hand from some of those who have benefitted from the programme.
“The programme provides an excellent vehicle to develop and exchange best practice and to implement genuine high quality partnership projects. It demonstrates how the continued links between our nations is providing real added value.
“Earlier this year, I welcomed Irish Minister Howlin to Wales to discuss future co-operation opportunities supported through EU funds. I look forward to making a reciprocal visit to Dublin next month to meet colleagues and to celebrate 20 years of co-operation through this important European funding programme.”
The new Ireland-Wales Cooperation Programme 2014-2020, worth £75m (€90m), will begin early next year and will be managed by the Welsh Government in partnership with Irish Authorities.
Jane Hutt added:
“I am firmly committed to building upon the very close and fruitful relationship which exists between our two nations, as we look forward to a successor 2014-20 Ireland-Wales programme building upon the considerable achievements to date.”
