This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Links between Scotland and Ireland
04/10/2006
Scotland, Ireland, and Northern Ireland are working together to finalise a programme of European investment that will fund a range of joint projects involving partners from the three countries.
In advance of a debate in the Scottish Parliament, Deputy Enterprise and Lifelong Learning Minister Allan Wilson said:
"There are hundreds of years of history between Scotland and Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
"As two of our closest neighbours, it makes sense to develop these historical links which will benefit all parties, culturally, socially and economically.
"I recently visited several Further Education colleges in Northern Ireland and Ministers hope to make a similar visit to the Republic in the near future.
"We now have an opportunity to further our links with the proposed development of a EU cross-border programme of co-operation between Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland.
"Good progress is being made in its development. Ministers and officials have been involved in detailed discussions with colleagues across the Irish Sea, as well as Scottish partners over programme themes and financial allocations.
"This programme will provide some €200 million which will go towards such diverse fields of shared interest as business development, research, tourism, natural and cultural heritage and renewable energy.
"We hope to be able to kickstart the programme and share new ideas and best practice next spring."