Northside Partnership

Today we launched our Pre-Budget Submission 2027 in Buswells, Dublin.

Our message to Government is clear: Budget 2027 must match ambition with investment.

Local Development Companies work in every part of Ireland, rural, urban and island communities, supporting people, community groups and social enterprises to tackle poverty, disadvantage, isolation and barriers to opportunity. The submission sets out practical, targeted investment asks to strengthen this work locally and nationally.

We are calling for:

✅ €6.1m increase for SICAP to support work tackling poverty and disadvantage
✅ €10m secured annually for integration supports for new arrivals
✅ €10.2m additional funding for LEADER to support rural enterprise and community projects
✅ €12m investment in Tús/RSS to sustain essential local services
✅ €500k to expand Rural Recreation Officers, supporting tourism, trails and local amenities

We also recommend basing wider Sláintecare Healthy Communities rollout on a strengthened implementation and funding model.

These are focused, deliverable investments that will help communities thrive.

We are asking elected representatives and Government to support this submission and to back the local development work that makes a real difference every day in communities across Ireland.

Local Development Companies Network Cian O'Callaghan T.D. Barry Heneghan TD Ó Muirí Norma Foley - TD Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD Department of Children, Disability and Equality Department of Further and Higher Education Research Innovation & Science

The theme for Irish Refugee Week 2026 is ‘Courage’
Refugee Week Ireland celebrates these everyday acts of courage by individuals, families and groups across Ireland. Through sharing music, food, conversation and learning, mong others, it recognises the courage it takes to seek protection and the courage it takes to be welcoming.

Simple acts of courage and continually showing up for one another. Inviting someone new to the men’s shed or GAA practice, offering directions, or a smile. These seemingly small acts of courage multiplied bring us closer and help us work together to build the Ireland all deserve.

Courage can brings people together, bridges divides and stands in solidarity. Let’s show our local pride to make Ireland a welcoming and safe place for everyone.
Find out more at: Refugee Week Ireland – Get involved