Date: 22 Jan 2026
Shared Heritage and Rural Cultural Experiences (SHARE) Programme to explore Donegal and its border areas’ interconnected heritage
A countywide initiative celebrating Donegal’s rich cultural traditions while building stronger cross‑community and cross‑border connections was launched in Inishowen today.
The new “SHARED Heritage” PEACEPLUS Programme, which is being delivered by Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP), is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and Donegal County Council.
This programme forms part of the Council’s €7.6 million PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan under Theme 3: Building Respect for All Cultural Identities.
The Shared Heritage and Rural Cultural Experiences (SHARE) Programme will explore Donegal and its border areas’ interconnected heritage — acknowledging that our region holds many pasts, but can work towards one shared future.
Participants will take part in a range of activities including workshops, conferences, theatre productions, exhibitions, and community-led learning events. These activities are designed to challenge attitudes, deepen understanding, and build greater levels of trust, tolerance, and connection across all key target groups under the PEACEPLUS Programme.
Speaking at the launch in Buncrana this week, Cllr. Paul Canning, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council and Chair of Donegal’s PEACEPLUS Partnership, said:
“Heritage reflects how people live and express themselves, shaped by generations past,” said Cllr. Canning.
“The Shared Heritage PEACEPLUS Programme provides a platform for communities to connect and celebrate what they value, fostering pride and engagement.
“Celebrating shared traditions is a powerful way to bridge cultural differences, foster mutual respect, and promote social harmony.”
Cllr Canning said through this countywide programme, they will aim to forge new cross‑community and cross‑border links, enhance social cohesion, strengthen the sense of belonging, and ultimately preserve Donegal’s rich heritage for future generations.
Chairperson of Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP), Francis Burns welcomed the project outlining that the Shared Heritage Programme represents a “significant opportunity for communities across Donegal and border areas to explore the stories, traditions, and experiences that connect us”.
Joint CEO of IDP, Shauna McClenaghan added “while challenging attitudes and sharing perspectives we hope to facilitate a greater level of trust and tolerance of our shared history on the island of Ireland.
IDP Project Development Officer, Tracey McRory will support the exploration of how people remember key events in history, developing an understanding of how these events were experienced by different communities within Donegal and cross border and how these historical legacies have contributed to relationships today.
“This project encourages people to come together, exchange perspectives, and build deeper understanding through workshops, exhibitions, theatre, and community-led events.
“By creating space for dialogue, creativity, and reflection, we hope to inspire greater trust, tolerance, and connection” explained Tracey.
Cllr Canning concluded:
“Together, initiatives like this not only safeguard our heritage but also build bridges toward a brighter, more inclusive future, one where respect, understanding, and shared culture unite us all. We hope that this project will continue to inspire and connect people for generations to come.”
