The Playhouse in Derry has launched the Making Peaceful Change project, an arts-based peacebuilding initiative. The project receives support from the PEACEPLUS programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.

Kevin Murphy, CEO of The Playhouse, welcomed attendees and detailed the organisation's focus on arts-led, trauma-informed peacebuilding in Northern Ireland and border counties of Ireland.

Junior Ministers Joanne Bunting and Aisling Reilly attended the launch, along with Gobhnait Swift from Ireland's Department of Rural and Community Development.

The Executive Office provided match funding for the £1.7 million project, which targets opportunities for over 3,000 people to address reconciliation, diversity, inclusion and good relations.

Junior Minister Bunting noted the programme's potential to unite people on shared challenges through arts, building empathy and reducing division.

Junior Minister Reilly stated the arts can connect and inspire communities, with the project aiming to foster lasting peace.

Dara Calleary TD, Ireland's Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and Jerry Buttimer TD, Minister of State for Community Development and Charities, expressed support for the initiative.

Gina McIntyre, SEUPB Chief Executive, highlighted the role of such interventions in promoting mutual respect amid ongoing societal challenges.

The event included a monologue performance by local actor Rachel Harley, created through work with Foyle Women's Aid service users.