HOUSE PASSES BOYLE AMENDMENT INCREASING U.S. FUNDING TO INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR IRELAND

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R.2407, a House Appropriations package including the Fiscal Year 2020 State, Foreign Operations Appropriations Act. This package includes an amendment offered by Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) which doubles funding for the International Fund for Ireland to $1.5 million from $750,000. H.R.2407 now awaits consideration in the Senate.

“I am pleased that my amendment has passed on the House floor today at this critical juncture. I advocated for increased funding for the International Fund for Ireland because their work has become increasingly important. Brexit will have significant consequences for the island of Ireland. The border is in danger of, once again, becoming a significant barrier, physically and psychologically, to harmonious relationships that have been delicately fostered over the past few decades.

Over the years, the United States has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to help create a strong and peaceful society on the island of Ireland, and our continued involvement is important for maintaining that peace. I am encouraged that my fellow Members of Congress supported my amendment to increase funding to the IFI and continue their support for peace throughout the island. The Good Friday Agreement was just the start of the creation of peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland, not the end.”

The International Fund for Ireland is an independent organization that supports economic regeneration and social development projects in areas most affected by the decades of violence in Northern Ireland. Since its inception in 1986, IFI’s projects have made vital contributions to improving the physical and economic infrastructure in some of the area’s most vulnerable communities.