THE RECONCILIATION FORUM is set to meet in Dublin Castle today to discuss the reduction of sectarianism and segregation across the island of Ireland.

Today’s meeting will also debate how to best manage the legacy of the Troubles.

The meeting will host representatives from 120 groups currently involved in working on advancing the cause of peace across Ireland.

The Forum for Peace and Reconciliation was established by the Irish Government in August 1994 following the IRA ceasefire. The forum was established to to enable discussion between all parties on the island of Ireland.

The Forum has met sporadically since 1996.

Groups attending today’s meeting are involved in a wide range of peace-building activities including youth work, arts and culture.

The 180 delegates in attendance will be addressed by Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan TD. Speaking ahead of the forum Flanagan said:

I know from speaking to community groups that sectarianism and division continue to blight communities across the North and that the past eighteen months have been particularly difficult.

The Reconciliation Fund has disbursed €40 million to more than 1,800 projects since 1999. A further €2.7 million will be given to groups this year. Applications for the next round of funds should be made by September 26.