This programme has evolved into the Sustainable Peace Network.

During the latter half of 2002 the Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation embarked on an inclusive consultative process to determine the focus of a new programme aimed at involving in the peace process a range of former combatants. While allowing for further consultation and amendment, the following general focus was agreed upon:

"To help consolidate the peace process by providing an inclusive forum within which current and former military and paramilitary participants can meet, exchange views, build relationships and address issues."

Glencree’s commitment to inclusivity means that in this ‘(ex)combatants’ programme we are striving to include direct participants in the armed aspects of the ‘troubles’ from a wide range of loyalist and republican ex-prisoners’ groups as well as participants from military and police backgrounds from all parts of these islands. Since early 2003 regular bimonthly residentials are being held in which issues such as social inclusion are discussed. On a number of occasions representatives of the broader society (churches, trade unions, political parties, the business sector, the media) have fruitfully participated in discussions with and between (ex)combatants.

Following further consultations at the end of 2004 it was agreed that during 2005 the programme will focus, firstly, on more in depth work with smaller numbers of participants (within a “Sustainable Peace” network). Secondly, the programme’s inclusivity will be strengthened by concentrating on groups who have been underrepresented thus far, such as members of state forces and some loyalist groupings.

Contact : Wilhelm Verwoerd xcomb@glencree.ie

Funding

This programme is funded by the European Union through the Cross-border consortium under the EU Peace II Programme and part-financed by the UK and Irish Governments.