While the specific local nature of the projects to be funded under this Priority may mean that the potential for North/South co-operation in this area is not as great as that under the other Priorities, opportunities still exist in this context, which will be explored over the term of the Plan. The most significant of these is in the area of Youth Services. Youth exchanges are included in the four areas which have been agreed as priorities for co-operation by the North/South Ministerial Council – Education Sector. The Centre for Cross-Border Studies in Armagh has been commissioned to undertake an evaluation of the range and effectiveness of current initiatives in the area of school, youth and teacher exchanges and to make recommendations to a Steering Committee representative of both Administrations on the adoption of a coherent, integrated strategy for the future. The Steering Committee has been formed and will bring proposals arising from the evaluation to the North/South Ministerial Council – Education Sector.
With regard to Local Development, Partnership companies and ADM-community groups, particularly those in the Southern Border counties, were able to access funding under the Peace I Programme (1995-2000) which allowed them to complement their plans and extend their work to have a particular focus on reconciliation. Partnerships and community groups have been requested to examine the opportunities to undertake cross-Border work that may be funded under the Peace II Programme.
Under those Measures/Sub-Measures where North/South co-operation is currently limited, e.g. Childcare and Equality, the scope for collaboration on issues of mutual interest will be kept under review as projects arise and funding will be provided for innovative projects with a cross-Border element. In addition, existing cross-Border childcare networks will be further developed and expanded over the period of the current programme.