For Immediate Release: June 19, 2006
Contact: Kimberly Allen, (202) 226-8364; (202) 420-1524 [cell]
Rep. Rothman Helps Secure $10.8 Million in U.S. Aid for Ireland
(Washington, DC)— As a member of the House Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Congressman Steve Rothman (D-NJ) helped secure $10.8 million for the International Fund for Ireland, a private organization that promotes economic and social growth in Ireland. This U.S. economic aid to Ireland was allocated through the Foreign Operations spending bill for Fiscal Year 2007, which the House approved Friday, June 9 on a vote of 373-34.
"As the peace process in Northern Ireland moves forward, it is imperative that the U.S. continue to provide this critical funding to Ireland. Our support for the International Fund for Ireland is targeted and effective. This economic aid that is used by the Irish people will help build an economy strengthened by peace rather than undermined by civil strife," said Rothman.
The U.S. has supported the International Fund for Ireland since it was established by the British and Irish governments in 1986. International Fund for Ireland programs focus on four key areas: building foundations for reconciliation in the most marginalized communities; building bridges for contact between divided communities; moving towards a more integrated society; and leaving a legacy looking ahead to ensure sustainability over the long term.
Since joining the Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations in 2001, Rothman has helped secure $100 million in foreign aid for Ireland. As a long-time supporter of Ireland, Rothman is a member of the Friends of Ireland Caucus, a congressional organization that focuses on issues related to the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
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