The International Fund for Ireland may conclude its operations in 10 years. Shona McCarthy, the fund's chairperson, indicated this timeline. The organisation has invested close to £800 million in peace initiatives across Northern Ireland and border counties since 1986.

McCarthy noted that a new strategy guides activities for the coming decade. She highlighted challenges in securing funds from international donors. Contributors have included the UK, Ireland, the US, the European Union, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The fund originated from the 1985 Anglo-Irish Agreement. It received support from US President Ronald Reagan at that time. It has financed nearly 7,000 projects over four decades to address divisions between Protestant and Catholic communities.

McCarthy pointed to donor perceptions that Northern Ireland's peace process has progressed after 40 years. She observed that global needs in other regions compete for support. Donors question the duration of post-conflict aid requirements.

Lily Bannon and Michelle Bradley, residents on opposite sides of a peace wall in west Belfast, connected through a fund-supported work programme. Bannon identifies as Protestant and Bradley as Catholic. McCarthy described their friendship as an example of the programmes' impact.

Thirty-nine peace walls remain in Northern Ireland, mostly in Belfast, per Department of Justice data.