EU cash boost for peace projects

IFA is working to end sectarianism in the game

More than 40 community relations groups across Northern Ireland are to receive over £7m in European Union funding.

The cash is part of the Peace Two programme which is aimed at groups and organisations promoting reconciliation.

One of those to benefit will be the Irish Football Association which has set up a project to eradicate sectarianism and other problems in the game.

The IFA's community relations officer Michael Boyd said the money was badly needed.

"We have a strategy which runs from 2002 to 2006 and without this support and this funding we would not be able to do it," he said.

"We work with key people such as the supporters, the IFA staff, the football league, the clubs, and the media, to reach our main goal to make the game more inclusive.

"Without this funding coming from the community relations council we would not be able to do this."