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Boyle Leads Successful Effort to Increase Funding for Northern Ireland Peace Programs

December 17, 2019

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives increased funding for peace programs in the north of Ireland to $2 million as part of a Fiscal Year 2020 government spending package, expected to be signed by the President on Friday. This substantial increase is a result of an amendment offered by Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) in June to the Fiscal Year 2020 State, Foreign Operations Appropriations.

"I am happy this funding was included in the House spending package released this week," said Congressman Boyle. "I have long advocated for increased funding for the International Fund for Ireland. As the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union, the on-the-ground work of the IFI is critically important. Brexit will have significant consequences for the island of Ireland. I am glad that my colleagues have recognized this threat and committed to increase U.S. support for peace throughout the island. For decades, the United States has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to help create a strong and peaceful society on the island of Ireland, and our continued involvement is important for maintaining that peace."

The Senate is expected to pass H.R. 1865, which includes FY2020 State, Foreign Operations Appropriations, later this week and then it is expected to be signed into law by President Trump by Friday, December 20, 2019. On June 19, 2019, the House of Representatives passed H.R.2407, which included an amendment offered by Congressman Boyle to increase funding for the International Fund for Ireland. Since that time, the House and Senate leadership negotiated this Fiscal Year 2020 government spending package, which maintained Congressman Boyle's amendment.

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