Tánaiste Simon Harris announces doubling of local community funding in Lebanon
- Foilsithe: 26 Márta 2025
- An t-eolas is déanaí: 12 Aibreán 2025
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris, today (26 March) announced an increase in funding for Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects supported by Irish Defence Forces personnel serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Speaking during his visit to Irish troops at Camp Shamrock, he confirmed that the CIMIC budget from the Defence Vote will be doubled from €40,000 to €80,000 for 2025. This funding will be used to support local community projects in the IRISHPOLBATT Area of Operations in South Lebanon.
Announcing the funding increase, the Tánaiste said:
“This funding will enable the Defence Forces to maintain their proud tradition of humanitarian engagement as part of their peacekeeping duties. The additional funding will further support our efforts and ensure that we can continue to provide assistance, strengthen relationships and support the ongoing recovery of those most affected by this conflict. We must acknowledge that the strength and resilience of the people in this community are truly inspiring, given the recent destruction visited upon the region. By increasing the CIMIC budget, Irish personnel can make an even greater impact on the lives of those affected by the conflict. These projects will directly improve conditions for local communities.”
As part of its contribution to community cohesion and development, primarily in its area of operations, Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) micro-projects are supported by the Irish UNIFIL contingent with the aim of improving the lives of those in the local communities in which Irish troops serve.
Irish troops will continue to work closely with local authorities, and international partners to implement these vital initiatives. This funding, along with Irish Aid funding, underscores the government’s strong support for the Defence Forces’ role in UN peacekeeping and Ireland’s ongoing commitment to fostering stability in the region.
Notes
CIMIC (Civil-Military Cooperation) projects are initiatives where military forces collaborate with civilian organisations, governments, NGOs and local communities to support development, humanitarian aid, and stability operations.
Types of projects under consideration for funding:
- refurbishment of a Local Community Centre – Supporting workshops and skill-building classes that equip women with the tools to secure employment and achieve financial independence
- refurbishment of a Social Development Centre – A vital resource for women and children, offering educational classes and housing a small health centre
- repairs and refurbishment of water purification systems – Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water
- repairs and refurbishment of local electrical systems – Improving infrastructure reliability for local communities