UPDATE ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PEACE IV PROGRAMME

Transcription

1 UPDATE ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PEACE IV PROGRAMME 1.0 Introduction This paper outlines the progress made on implementation of the PEACE IV Programme since the last Programme Monitoring Committee meeting on 24 May Note that financial figures presented reflect commitment recorded onto the ems as at 30 September All values outlined include ERDF (85%) and Government match funding (15%). 1.1 The PEACE IV Programme is split over 4 Specific Objectives: 1. Shared Education 2. Children and Young People 3. Shared Spaces & Services 4. Building Positive Relations 2.0 Implementation Progress 2.1 Highlights since the last meeting of the Programme Monitoring Committee include: 3 meetings of the Steering Committee 2 with 42 applications considered. 29 projects approved to a value of 67,328, These figures include 4,406, of funds to be allocated to Local Authorities under rebids as part of activity within 2.2, 3.2 and Details of Steering Committee meetings held since the last PMC meeting are included in Annex 1 3 Details of approved projects are included in Annex 2 1

2 73% of available Programme funding committed through values of Letters of Offer, with a further 65.3m of anticipated commitment expected by quarter This will result in programme commitment of 95% for the Programme. 2.2 At the Specific Objective level, progress has been achieved as follows: The Local Action Plan for Belfast City Council was approved at a value of 10,375,701 (ERDF & Match). The Plan will be implemented across the three LAP actions of Children & Young People (0-24 yrs), targeting 2,772 young people, Shared Spaces and Building Positive Relations. Belfast City Council are currently rebidding for additional allocation which will be considered by the Steering Committee in early Approval of the Cavan County Council LA Shared Space action at a value of 1,110,941 (ERDF & Match). Appointment of the Children and Young People (14-24 yrs) Quality and Impact body at a value of 1,161,477 (ERDF & Match); Approval of 10 Children and Young People (14-24yrs) projects at a cumulative value of 38,930,499 (ERDF & Match). These projects will target 7,741 young people who will complete programmes to develop their soft skills and a respect for diversity; and Approval of 14 Regional Projects at a cumulative value of 16,170,534 (ERDF & Match) under the Building Positive Relations at the Local Level Specific Objective. 2

3 Figure 1: Overview of PEACE IV ( ) Programme Overview of PEACE IV ( ) Allocated Unallocated 1. Shared Ed 2.1 C&YP 2.2 LA C&YP* 3.1 Capital Dev.** 3.2 LA Shared 3.3 Victims 4.1 LA Plans *** 4.2 Regional MILLIONS * This includes funding for Phase 1 and Phase 2. Phase 1 unallocated amount is 2,107,030. Local Authorities have been requested to rebid to ensure full allocation. A decision on the allocation of the remaining 12.3m is under consideration by Accountable Departments and Member States but it is likely to be transferred to sub-objective 4.1: Regional Projects. ** Currently under assessment. Steering Committee meeting planned for January 2018 ***The unallocated amount of 6,984, within this objective is subject to a rebid exercise with Local Authorities. 2.3 Figure 1 above presents an overview of the Programme allocation as at 30 September 2017 which reflects a total of 45 4 projects at a cumulative commitment value of 176,104,097. The remainder of the report provides a detailed update in relation to each Specific Objective of the Programme, as illustrated in Figure 2 PEACE IV Programme Specific Objectives and Actions of the Programme. 4 Reflects 17 Local Action Plans each implementing across 3 sub themes 3

4 Figure 2 PEACE IV Programme Specific Objectives and Actions of the Programme 4

5 Specific Objective 1 Shared Education 35.3m (ERDF + Match) The key aim of this Specific Objective is to provide direct, sustained, and curriculumbased contact between pupils and teachers from all backgrounds, through collaboration between schools from different sectors in order to promote good relations and enhance children s skills and attitudes to contribute to a cohesive society. Programme delivery to date A call for applications under this element closed on 17 May A total of five applications were received. Following appraisal at Steering Committee on 28 June 2016, two applications were approved to progress to Stage 2. These applications were submitted via ems by the deadline of 6 September At a meeting of the Steering Committee on 1 March 2017, 2 projects were approved, with ERDF + Match funding of 33,146,798 allocated. This represents a financial commitment of 94% of the overall budget. The remaining funding may be allocated to the primary / post primary sector, subject to Steering Committee approval of an additional proposal from the Lead Partner. Progress within reporting period Since the last Programme Monitoring Committee meeting, the budgets for approved projects under this objective have been finalised and the Letters of Offer issued. Recruitment of staff is underway and the majority of vacancies have been filled. Workshops for schools have commenced to assist them with partnership building and applications. The approved projects together represent 100% of outputs committed as shown in table 1 (overleaf). 5

6 Table 1 Progress of commitment against programme targets Shared Education Output Number of schools involved in shared education by 2023 Number of teachers trained with the capacity to facilitate shared education by 2023 Number of pupils (school years) participating in shared education by 2023* Commitment Programme Programme within approved Target Target LoOs Committed % 2,100 2, % 144, , % * Milestone target of 19,200 by 2018 All indicators to date are on target. JS continue to closely monitor Programme activity. Specific Objective 2 Children & Young People 67m (ERDF & Match) The Children and Young People Specific Objective focuses on two groups; Children and Young People Aged (ERDF + Match: 37.6m); and Children and Young People Aged 0-24 (ERDF + Match: 29.4m) This objective will be delivered by Local Authorities. Objective Children and Young People Aged years 37.6m (ERDF & Match) This specific objective comprises of two main components, a Quality Impact Body and Projects: 6

7 Quality and Impact Body circa 1.2m (ERDF + Match) In addition to projects, another element within Objective 2.1 is to appoint a Quality and Impact Body to support the delivery of projects and achievement of Programme outcomes. All projects will be required to engage actively and positively with the Quality and Impact Body. This Body will be responsible for ensuring that the impact of the Programme is maximised by developing and nurturing a strong change and outcomes focus by funded projects and supporting a high-quality, youth work approach Projects (ERDF + Match: 36.4m) This action is outcome focused in terms of good relations, personal development and citizenship, targeting young people aged between years who are disadvantaged, excluded or marginalised, have deep social and emotional needs and are at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour, violence or dissident activity. Programme Delivery to date The call for applications under this objective closed on 4 January A total of 34 applications were received. Following appraisal at Steering Committee on 1 March 2017, 3 applications for the Quality and Impact Body and 19 applications for projects under Children and Young People (14-24) were approved to progress to Stage 2. Of the 22 approved, only 20 applicants submitted Stage 2 applications via ems by the closing date of 24 April Progress within reporting period On 7 June 2017, the Steering Committee approved Co-operation Ireland s YouthPact application at a value of 1,161,477 (ERDF & Match). The Letter of Offer has been signed and the project commenced on 1 September At a meeting of the Steering Committee on 13 September 2017, 10 projects were approved 5, with one reserve project. ERDF + Match funding of 38,930,499 was allocated. 5 Detail of approved projects can be found in Annex 2 7

8 The total ERDF + Match commitment for this objective is 40,091,976 which represents a financial over-commitment of 7%. This objective is also over-committed on outputs by 5%. This over-commitment was approved by the Steering Committee and the Accountable Departments who agreed it was a prudent approach given the nature of this initiative and the expected attrition rate. In addition, an application submitted by the Royal Mencap Society, valued at 2,919,501 was scored by the Steering Committee above the quality threshold. This project is now waitlisted and awaits approval from Accountable Departments to proceed. On 21 September all 10 successful projects attended an Implementation Workshop in the Skainos Centre, Belfast. Co-operation Ireland, were also in attendance and delivered a presentation focusing on the support offered to projects. The approved projects together represent 105% of outputs committed as shown in table 2: Table 2 Progress of commitment against programme targets C&YP yrs Output Programme Target Commitment within approved LoOs Programme Target Committed Number of young people aged years who are most marginalised and disadvantaged completing approved programmes that develop their soft skills and a respect for diversity Phase 1 ( ) 1,875 Phase 2 ( ) 5,525 1,935 5, % 105% TOTAL 7,400 7, % 8

9 Objective Children and Young People Aged 0-24 years 29.4m (ERDF + Match) The Programme will invest in children and young people so that they can reach their potential and maximise their contribution to a more cohesive society. It will bring about change in the form of clear, meaningful and sustainable distance travelled for individual young people in terms of good relations, personal development and citizenship. This component of the PEACE IV Programme will form part of the Local Authority Action Plans. In developing the Cooperation Programme, it was proposed to deliver this sub-theme in a two-phased approach. Phase 1 was allocated 17,100,000 and to date 14,951,794 has been committed to 17 Local Authority Action Plans. All Local Authority Action Plans have been requested to bid for additional funding to ensure full commitment of this phase. An additional 12.3m of funding was allocated to Phase 2 (with a target of 15,000 young people) this was subject to an evaluation of the 2.1 (Children and Young People 14-24yrs). Programme Delivery to date The call for applications for Children and Young People 0-24 under the Local Authority Action plans has closed. A total of 17 applications were received. As of 30 September 2017, 17 projects have been approved (see table 3 overleaf). This represents a financial commitment of 88%. The performance framework target of 5,000 is expected to be met. Some of the Local Authorities have submitted rebids for the remaining balance with Belfast City Council and Louth County Council rebids expected in early

10 Table 3 Approved projects and associated targets C&YP 0-24yrs Number of participants aged 0-24 completing approved programmes that develop their soft skills and a respect for diversity / By council area Approved activity targeting Interim target by 2018 Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council 1, Ards & North Down Borough Council Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council 1, Belfast City Council 2,772 1,060 Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council 1, Derry City & Strabane District Council 1, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Mid & East Antrim Borough Council Mid Ulster District Council 1, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council 1, Louth County Council Leitrim County Council Sligo County Council Cavan County Council 1, Donegal County Council Monaghan County Council ,865 5,001 Progress within reporting period In the period since the last Programme Monitoring Committee meeting, the Steering Committee met to approve the Belfast City Council LAP under this objective. The approved project represents a commitment of 1,969, (ERDF + Match). The 10

11 Letter of Offer for this project is currently being drafted. In terms of approved projects, 95% of targets outputs will be met as shown in table 4. Table 4 Progress of commitment against programme targets C&YP 0-24yrs Output (Phase 1) Programme Target Commitment within approved LoOs Programme Target Committed Number of participants aged 0-24 years completing approved programmes that develop their soft skills and respect for diversity * Milestone target of 5,000 for ,000* 19,685 See following table 95% The Accountable Department (DfE) for 2.1 (Children and Young People 14-24yrs) has already indicated that they have concerns regarding the number of beneficiaries available to avail of the Programmes, and have relinquished any call on the 12.3m. SEUPB are currently undertaking initial consultations with the Member States to identify potential proposals for reallocation of these funds. This activity may include the potential for new calls and an analysis of options for additional funding in alternative specific objectives/themes. An element within the programme which is likely to be able to avail of this funding is Strategic Objective 4, Building Positive Relations at a local level. The accountable departments have indicated that they would be positively disposed to this transfer. 11

12 Specific Objective 3 Shared Spaces & Services 99.3m (ERDF + Match) The Shared Spaces and Services Objective includes three actions; Capital Development to create new Shared Spaces (ERDF + Match: 52.9m), Local Authority Shared Spaces Projects (ERDF + Match: 28.8m) and Victims and Survivors (ERDF + Match: 17.6m). Objective Capital Developments to create new Shared Spaces 52.9m (ERDF + Match) This action will create up to eight new shared civic spaces which will be used by all sections of the community. This will involve changes in both attitudes and behaviour with a corresponding reduction in segregation. Projects will be of a sufficient scale to have a transformative effect on local areas, as well as having a regional significance. Projects will incorporate high quality design and sustainable development principles, including measures to minimise carbon emissions. Programme Delivery to date A call for applications under this element closed on 25 January A total of 33 applications were received. Following appraisal at Steering Committee on 22 March 2017, 13 application were approved to progress to Stage 2. All 13 applicants submitted via ems by the closing date of 15 May Progress within reporting period Since the last Programme Monitoring Committee meeting, all 13 Stage 2 application were received and are under assessment. External resources have been contracted to assist with the assessments. It is anticipated that the Steering Committee will meet in 12

13 early 2018 to review applications and it is expected that 100% will be allocated at this time. Table 5 highlights the outputs sought within this objective. Table 5 Progress of commitment against programme targets Shared Spaces Output Programme Target Commitment within approved LoOs Number of capital developments to create shared spaces 8 Decisions not yet taken Objective Local Authority Shared Spaces Projects 28.8m (ERDF + Match) This action will support a number of local initiatives with the aim of making public spaces in cities, towns and villages more inclusive. Projects will often involve addressing sensitive topics around parades, flags, emblems, graffiti and other issues which can serve to intimidate and make some members of society, whether based on religion, race or other factors, feel unwelcome in some areas. This objective will be delivered by Local Authorities. Programme delivery to date A call for applications for Shared Spaces under the Local Authority Action plans has closed with a total of 17 applications received. As of 30 September 2017, 17 projects have been approved, with ERDF + Match funding of 27,653,873 allocated, representing a financial commitment of 96%. Most Local Authorities have submitted rebid applications for their remaining balance with Belfast City Council and Louth County Council rebids expected in early

14 Progress within reporting period In the period since the last PEACE IV Programme Monitoring Committee, two projects (Cavan County Council and Belfast City Council) were approved at a meeting of the Steering Committees on 7 June 2017 and 13 September 2017 respectively. The total allocation for these two projects was 7,117,747 (ERDF + Match). It is anticipated that the rebidding exercise will result in full allocation of this theme. 100% of Programme target outputs has been committed as highlighted in table 6 below. Table 6 Progress of commitment against programme targets LAP Shared Spaces Output Programme Target Commitment within approved LoOs Programme Target Committed Number of local initiatives that facilitate the sustained usage on a shared basis of public areas/buildings % Objective Victims and Survivors 17.6m (ERDF + Match) This objective will create a more cohesive society through an increased provision of shared spaces and services. It will recognise the need and demand of those who have suffered from the trauma of the conflict, and will develop the capacity for services to meet the needs of victims and survivors. It will add value by investing in cross-border health and wellbeing services that develop proven expertise within the region and increase the capacity and quality of care in the sector for victims and survivors and their families. 14

15 Programme Delivery to date A closed call for applications under this objective completed on 30 March The application received from The Victims & Survivors Service was approved by the Steering Committee on 11 May 2016 where it was approved to progress to Stage 2. Subsequently, the Victims and Survivors Service Stage 2 application was approved by the Steering Committee on 2 November The total ERDF + Match commitment under this objective is 15,779,572. This represents a financial commitment of 89% of the total allocation. 1,867,486 remains uncommitted and may be reallocated elsewhere within the Programme. Progress within reporting period Since the last Programme Monitoring Committee meeting, the Victims and Survivors and Victims Support Programme has launched. VSS invited applications from community and voluntary organisations to recruit 25 Health and Wellbeing Caseworkers, 18 Advocacy Support Workers and 5 Advocacy Managers to implement the PEACE IV Health and Wellbeing Caseworker Network and the Advocacy Support Programme. VSS received 86 applications in total across both programmes with 18 organisations applying for funding. 100% of Programme target outputs has been committed as highlighted in table 7 below. Table 7 Progress of commitment against programme targets Victims and Survivors Output Programme Target Commitment within approved LoOs Programme Targets Committed Number of individuals in receipt of advocacy support 6,300 6, % Number of individuals in receipt of assessment, case work support and resilience support 11,350 11, % 15

16 Specific Objective 4 Building Positive Relations at the Local Level 51.6m (ERDF + Match) The Building Positive Relations at a Local Level Objective includes 2 actions: Local Authority Action Plans 35.3m (ERDF + Match) and Regional Level Projects 16.3m (ERDF + Match). Objective 4.1 Local Authority Action Plans - Building Positive Relations at a Local Level 35.3m (ERDF + Match) This objective will support actions to facilitate the full participation of those groups particularly impacted by the legacy of the troubles/conflict. It will promote positive relations characterised by respect, where cultural diversity is celebrated and people can live, learn and socialise together, free from prejudice, hate and intolerance. Programme Delivery to date The call for applications for Building Positive Relationships under the Local Authority Action plans had a rolling deadline which has since closed. A total of 17 applications were received. As of 30 September 2017, 17 projects have been approved, with ERDF + Match funding of 28,309,549 allocated, representing a financial commitment of 80%. As is the case with the LAP Shared Spaces action, some of the Local Authorities have submitted rebids for the remaining balance with Belfast City Council and Louth County Council rebids expected in early

17 Progress within reporting period In the period since the last Programme Monitoring Committee meeting, Belfast City Council s Building Positive Relations Stage 2 application has been approved at Steering Committee, with 2,399,711 committed (ERDF + Match). 100% of Programme target outputs has been committed as highlighted in table 8 below. Table 8 Progress of commitment against programme targets LAP- BPR Output Programme Target Commitment within approved LoOs Programme Target Committed Number of local action plans that result in meaningful, purposeful and sustained contact between persons from different communities % Objective 4.2 Regional Level Projects 16.3m (ERDF + Match) This objective will deliver 20 regional level projects that result in meaningful, purposeful and sustained contact between persons from different communities. It will also promote positive relations characterised by respect, where cultural diversity is celebrated and people can live, learn and socialise together free from prejudice, hate and intolerance. Programme Delivery to date A call for applications under this element closed on 29 September A total of 31 applications were received. Following appraisal at Steering Committee on 23 November 2016, 21 applications were approved to progress to Stage 2. All submitted Stage 2 applications via ems by the closing date of 23 January

18 Progress within reporting period Since the last Programme Monitoring Committee meeting, assessments were carried out on the 21 Regional Level applications which went to Steering Committee on 7 June (continuing on 20 June 2017). 14 Projects were approved. 13 Letters of Offer have been issued and 1 project (Lifestart Foundation Ltd - Shaping Ourselves and Our Children Project) has not issued as a change in Project Partner has been proposed and is due to be considered by Steering Committee on the 29 th November Project Implementation Meetings have taken place with the 13 Projects that have received a Letter of Offer. The current approved projects together represent 99% of financial commitment and as highlighted in the table below, 70% of the target for this objective. Table 9 Progress of commitment against programme targets BPR - Regional Output Programme Target Commitment within approved LoOs Programme Target Committed Number of regional level projects that result in meaningful, purposeful and sustained contact between persons from different communities %* *If further funding is made available the projects will contribute further towards the total. An additional 4 projects which scored above the threshold were waitlisted due to funding availability. In addition, one project; Rural Respecting Difference Programme (Rural Development Council) which was rejected by the Steering Committee has had the decision overturned by the Review Panel and has been added to the waitlist. Details of the current reserve projects is included in the table

19 Table 10 - Wait listed applications BPR - Regional Lead Partner Project title Score ERDF + 15% Match Training for Women Network (TWN) Peace and Conflict Transformation Project (PACT) , Nerve Centre Making The Future 60 1,829, Co-Operation Ireland OPEN Doors 60 1,666, Ashton Community Trust Building Positive Relations 60 1,198, Rural Development Council Rural Respecting Difference Programme TOTAL 60 1,444, ,138, Discussions are at an advanced stage in relation to transfer of the 12.3m into this objective and this will be considered in the context of over commitment and the option for new calls. 2.4 Summary Table 11 which follows summarises the total commitment as at 30 September 2017 and sets out anticipated commitments for the remainder of the Programme. To date, 73% is committed and anticipated commitments will bring the total commitment to 98% of the Programme early in Table 11 - Overview of PEACE IV ( ) Programme THEME THEME ALLOCATION VALUE COMMITTED TO DATE ADDITIONAL ANTICIPATED COMMITMENT TOTAL ANTICIPATED COMMITMENT Shared Education 35,294, ,146, , Children & Young People (14 24 yrs) LAP Children & Young People (0-24 yrs) 37,647, ,091, ,091, ,058, ,951, ,951, Shared Spaces 52,941, ,900, ,900, LAP Shared Spaces 28,823, ,653, ,653, Victims and Survivors 17,647, ,779, ,779, LAP -BPR 35,294, ,309, ,990, ,300, Regional 16,375, ,170, ,170, TOTAL 241,081, ,104, ,890, ,994,

20 In previous programming periods, there was scope to over commit up to the end of the programming period. This management technique was utilised to offset slippage which tends to become more evident towards programme closure. Both Member States have previously agreed that over commitment is a prudent course of action as certain areas of the programme will have greater absorption capacity than others. It has also been agreed that this action is required at this point given the HMT funding guarantee deadline of March Programme Management 3.1 Support and training Training Programme for Lead Partners In order to assist projects with mobilisation, the SEUPB launched the first of a series of training seminars aimed at providing Lead Partners and Partners support and guidance in the effective implementation of their projects. The programme which is offered to both Lead Partners and Partners, will provide training in each jurisdiction in the following implementation areas; Partnership Responsibilities; Eligibility of Expenditure; Information and Publicity requirements; Effective delivery of public services; Effective delivery of capital projects; Risk management; and Sharing of best practice. 20

21 Four training seminars have been provided to PEACE IV Lead Partners/Partners to date as follows: Seminar Title & Description Date Location No. of attendees Eligibility of Expenditure Information & Communications 11 May 2017 La Mon Hotel, Belfast 36 1 June 2017 Junction NI, Dungannon May 2017 Ramada Resort, Dundalk May 2017 Europa Hotel, Belfast 37 Local Authority Partnership Training Developing effective partnerships at Local Authority level is a key requirement for successful delivery of Local Authority Action Plans. It has been agreed that training in partnership development will be organised centrally by SEUPB on behalf of all Local Authorities. Planning is underway to pilot this development work via two workshops early in Terms of Reference for this work are currently being drafted. 3.2 Exchange of Best Practice within the PEACE IV Programme The SEUPB is committed under the terms of the PEACE IV Cooperation Programme to secure the sharing of best practice learning from the Programme. (Technical Assistance Priority Axis; Specific Objective 3, pg. 62). Provision of 1,000,000 has therefore been made under the technical assistance priority axis of the PEACE IV Programme for activities that support the exchange of best practice across Europe and internationally in relation to the PEACE IV Programme. 21

22 The relevant technical assistance specific objective is: To ensure that potential beneficiaries are aware of the opportunities presented by the programme and that the general public is aware of the outputs and results of the programme The actions listed under this specific objective include: 1. Exchange of information and best practice within the programme and between programmes; 2. Funding for projects that collate, analyse and disseminate the experiences and lessons of the EU PEACE programmes; 3. Support for the exchange of best practice across regions in Europe and internationally, in relation to peace, conflict resolution and reconciliation. 6 Currently, there is no single reference point/repository of data across the four PEACE programmes providing a detailed overview of activity, outputs and impact that can be used to articulate the journey Northern Ireland and the Border regions have travelled over the period of intervention. Given that over 2,224m has been either spent or committed to date, it would be prudent to identify and implement mechanisms to ensure best practice can be shared internationally. The collation of this data and the ability to self-serve through an automated referencing and reporting function are pre-requisites to delivering the full technical assistance objective above. The development of a full knowledge network that will facilitate best practice exchange will implemented through a two stage process. Stage 1, will involve detailed research to capture relevant information and data from all 4 PEACE Programmes and analyse and present it in a format that can be easily stored, retrieved and presented in a bespoke central database (knowledge hub). Stage II will involve wider communication and

23 networking in which the lessons of the PEACE Programmes are actively disseminated and communicated to wider interests. Stage 1 Research and Technical Build. Sponsor departments have agreed to proceed with the development of separate business cases for both aspects of Stage 1 the research and the technical build. This work is now underway and it is expected that, subject to approval of the business cases, Stage I will begin early in 2018 and complete within a 9 or 10 month timeframe. Stage 2 Wider Communication and Networking. We will consider progressing to Stage 2 upon approval of Stage 1. A separate business case will be developed for Stage 2 at that time and approval to proceed will be sought from Member States. Regular progress reports will be presented to PMC as this work progresses. 4.0 Regulatory Requirements 4.1 Expenditure outside the Eligible Area In its application for the Victims element of the PEACE IV Programme Shared Spaces and Services, the Lead Partner (the Victims and Survivors Service) identified that there would be some level of expenditure outside the eligible area. The total expenditure outside the eligible area will be 513,000 or 3.8% of the total budget of 15.8 million. The Managing Authority has consulted the Audit Authority and is content that this is permissible within the terms of the relevant regulations. Steering Committee approved the application at Stage 2 on 2 November The application explicitly stated that there would be some expenditure outside the eligible area. The Audit Authority are 23

24 content with this expenditure but have requested that formal approval is sought from the PMC and that the Steering Committee are advised. The Managing Authority therefore seeks PMC approval for the Victims and Survivors Service to offer support to those living outside the eligible area but within the EU who nonetheless are deemed victims of survivors under the terms of the Victims and Survivors (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 (SI2953 (NI17)). 4.2 Compliance with E-Cohesion / Development of Online Monitoring System The SEUPB is using the INTERACT Electronic Monitoring System (ems) to meet the requirements of e-cohesion. The ems has been developed using open source software. It is available free of charge, on a community usage basis, to SEUPB under licence. SEUPB has appointed CPB, a Vienna based company, to host and configure the system to the specific needs of the INTERREG Programme. CPB were responsible for the development of the original database for INTERACT. All necessary functionality required for designation has been implemented and working effectively. Additional functionality to improve system and business capability is noted below: Forecasting The forecasting functionality was developed and delivered into SEUPB test environment for both programmes. Projects can now modify and update spend profile on submission of quarterly reports. Finance interface with Sun - All testing has proven successful and this function has been implemented on the live environment, payments can now be made from the ems and transferred directly into the SEUPB SUN finance system. 24

25 Reporting - A review identifying/prioritising reporting requirements and providing recommendations for implementation has been completed. SEUPB are now building infrastructure to ensure the timely production of key reports to support decision making and reporting to projects, member states and the commission. SEUPB recognises the additional workload experienced by partners through this transition period and is appreciative of the support received throughout. The core element of the system is now functional and compliant. SEUPB will continue to communicate with all project partners when system updates/fixes or functionality improvements are required and will always aim to minimise impact within individual projects. 4.3 Implementation of Anti-Fraud Data Mining Tool The Managing Authority is required to put in place effective and proportionate anti-fraud measures taking into account the risks identified (CPR Article 125 (4) (c)) and the Commission has advised that ARACHNE is an approved system for helping to meet this requirement. Early stage implementation of the ARACHNE tool has commenced. SEUPB are currently extracting preliminary data for analysis by ARACHNE. Training is expected to be held early next year, facilitated by the Department of Finance. Once fully implemented, the ARACHNE tool will assist by identifying risk within operations. 4.4 Closure of the PEACE III Programme As previously reported, the Final Implementation Report was submitted to the Commission on 27 March 2017, with the final Control Report & Closure Declaration issued to the Commission on 28 March 2017 with no audit issues. 25

26 In line with procedure, the Commission provided their observations on the initial submission. These observations have been incorporated into the revised submission as required. Below is a representation of the overall figures within that submission: PEACE III Submitted to Commission ERDF Match + External Total % Expenditure / Programme value TOTAL 222,780, ,053, ,833, % Recommendation The Monitoring Committee is requested to: Note the progress that has been made with regards to Programme Implementation Note the progress that has been made with regards to the Regulatory Requirements of the Programmes including SEUPB s use of the ems and the ARACHNE anti-fraud data mining tool. Approve the proposal for eligible expenditure in relation to the Victims and Survivors Service project. 26

27 Annex 1 Details of Steering Committee meetings since last PMC meeting Date of meeting Specific Objective(s) Total Number of applications considered Children & Young People 2 07-Jun-17 Local Area Action Plans 1 Regional 8 20-Jun-17 Regional Sep-17 Local Area Action Plans Children & Young People (14-24 years)

28 Annex 2 Approved Projects Projects marked with an asterisk have been approved in the reporting period. Lead Partner Project ERDF Committed (as per LOO) ERDF + 15% Calculation 1. SHARED EDUCATION 1 Education Authority PEACE IV Shared Education Project 24,557, ,890, Early years Sharing From the Start 3,617, ,256, TOTAL 28,174, ,146, CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE (14-24) 2.1 Co-operation Ireland * YouthPact 987, ,161, Youth Action NI * Amplify 4,008, ,716, South West College (SWC) * Youthscape 3,395, ,994, The Bytes Project * Peace Bytes 3,225, ,795, Include Youth (IY) * Strive 3,382, ,979, Ashton Community Trust * Breakthrough 2,895, ,406, YMCA, Ireland * YMCA M-Power 3,010, ,541, Youth Link NI (YLNI) * Transformative Education for 2,032, ,390, Positive Relationships 2.1 EXTERN * The Third Space Project (TSP) 3,399, ,999, Belfast Metropolitan College (BMC) * Futures Project 3,426, ,031,

29 2.1 Springboard Opportunities Ltd (SOL) * Journeys 4,313, ,074, TOTAL 34,078, ,091, CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE (0-24) 2.2 Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 654, , Ards & North Down Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 552, , Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Local Authority Action Plan 1,086, ,277, Council 2.2 Belfast City Council * Local Authority Action Plan 1,673, ,969, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Local Authority Action Plan 694, , Council 2.2 Cavan County Council Local Authority Action Plan 553, , Derry City & Strabane District Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,422, ,673, Donegal County Council Local Authority Action Plan 991, ,166, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council Local Authority Action Plan 602, , Leitrim County Council Local Authority Action Plan 239, , Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Local Authority Action Plan 418, , Louth County Council Local Authority Action Plan 737, , Mid & East Antrim Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 673, , Mid Ulster District Council Local Authority Action Plan 709, , Monaghan County Council Local Authority Action Plan 542, , Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,002, ,179,

30 2.2 Sligo County Council Local Authority Action Plan 153, , TOTAL 12,709, ,951, LAA SHARED SPACES 3.2 Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,114, ,311, Ards & North Down Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,193, ,403, Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Local Authority Action Plan 1,710, ,012, Council 3.2 Belfast City Council * Local Authority Action Plan 5,105, ,006, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Local Authority Action Plan 1,301, ,531, Council 3.2 Cavan County Council * Local Authority Action Plan 944, ,110, Derry City & Strabane District Council Local Authority Action Plan 2,403, ,827, Donegal County Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,675, ,971, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,018, ,198, Leitrim County Council Local Authority Action Plan 568, , Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Local Authority Action Plan 907, ,068, Louth County Council Local Authority Action Plan 536, , Mid & East Antrim Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,115, ,312, Mid Ulster District Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,039, ,222,

31 3.2 Monaghan County Council Local Authority Action Plan 916, ,078, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,693, ,992, Sligo County Council Local Authority Action Plan 259, , TOTAL 23,505, ,653, VICTIMS & SURVIVORS 3.3 Victims & Survivors Service Provision of Services for Victims & 13,412, ,779, Survivors TOTAL 13,412, ,779, BUILDING POSITIVE RELATIONS - LAA 4.1 Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,302, ,532, Ards & North Down Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,435, ,688, Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Local Authority Action Plan 2,147, ,526, Council 4.1 Belfast City Council * Local Authority Action Plan 2,039, ,399, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Local Authority Action Plan 1,492, ,755, Council 4.1 Cavan County Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,154, ,358, Derry City & Strabane District Council Local Authority Action Plan 2,943, ,462, Donegal County Council Local Authority Action Plan 2,052, ,414,

32 4.1 Fermanagh & Omagh District Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,216, ,430, Leitrim County Council Local Authority Action Plan 618, , Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,057, ,243, Louth County Council Local Authority Action Plan 636, , Mid & East Antrim Borough Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,366, ,607, Mid Ulster District Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,096, ,289, Monaghan County Council Local Authority Action Plan 1,122, ,321, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Local Authority Action Plan 2,072, ,437, Sligo County Council Local Authority Action Plan 309, , TOTAL 24,063, ,309, BUILDING POSITIVE RELATIONS - REGIONAL 4.2 Youth Action NI * Youth Network for Peace (YNP) 917, ,079, NIACRO * Get Real 648, , British Red Cross * PRISM - Promoting Reconciliation & Integration through Safe Mediation 569, , NI Federation of Housing Associations * Housing Association Integration 928, ,092, Project 4.2 NI Housing Executive * Reading Rooms "Listen, Share, 1,381, ,625, Change" 4.2 Migrant Rights Centre Ireland * Crossing Borders Breaking Boundaries 933, ,098,

33 4.2 Glencree Centre for Peace & Reconciliation Addressing the Legacy of Inter- 1,051, ,237, * Communal Violence through Facilitated Dialogue 4.2 NW Play Resource Centre * Theatre Peace Building Academy 730, , Bloody Sunday Trust * Conflict Transformation and 456, , Peacebuilding Project 4.2 Irish Football Association * Sport Uniting Communities 1,484, ,746, Politics Plus * The Next Chapter 1,235, ,453, Extern * Extern Positive Learning 1,601, ,884, Bryson Group * DARE to Lead Change 717, , Lifestart Foundation * Shaping Ourselves and Our 1,087, ,279, Children: Building the foundations of good community relations in family life (SOOC) TOTAL 13,744, ,170,