DUBLIN, Ireland: Ireland will double its community funding for local projects in Lebanon, Tanaiste Simon Harris announced this week during a visit to Irish troops serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Harris is on a two-day trip to Lebanon for political meetings and to visit the 125th Infantry Battalion, part of the Irish-Polish UN peacekeeping mission in South Lebanon.

As part of his visit, he confirmed that funding for Civil-Military Cooperation (Cimic) projects—humanitarian initiatives supported by the Irish Defence Forces—will increase from 40,000 euros to 80,000 euros in 2025.

"This funding will enable the Defence Forces to maintain their proud tradition of humanitarian engagement as part of their peacekeeping duties," Harris said.

"The additional funding will further support our efforts and ensure that we can continue to assist, strengthen relationships, and support the ongoing recovery of those most affected by this conflict."

The Cimic programme enables Irish personnel to directly support communities in areas where they are stationed. Planned projects include upgrades to a community centre offering women's workshops, repairs to a water purification system, and improvements to health and social development centres.

"We must acknowledge that the strength and resilience of the people in this community are truly inspiring, given the recent destruction visited upon the region. By increasing the Cimic budget, Irish personnel can make an even greater impact on the lives of those affected by the conflict," Harris added.

"These projects will directly improve conditions for local communities."

Irish troops will continue collaborating with local authorities and international organisations to implement these initiatives.

The Department of Defence said the funding increase, along with support from Irish Aid, reflects the Government's "strong support for the Defence Forces' role in UN peacekeeping and Ireland's ongoing commitment to fostering stability in the region."