History

In 1979, at the height of the Irish 'Troubles' an influential businessman Dr Brendan O’Regan founded Co-operation Ireland (it as then known as Co-operation North). He, and a number of like-minded people realised that for Ireland to succeed economically and socially there needed to be better relations between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

In the beginning the organisation was primarily involved in researching the types of projects needed to realise this aim. As a result of this research Co-operation Ireland began developing and managing sensitive programmes, which brought people from both sides of the border together. This was an extremely turbulent time in our history and for many of the groups participating it was a courageous and sometimes life threatening experience. But for those groups who participated getting involved with Co-operation Ireland was life changing - in fact some of the groups who participated in those first projects have continued to meet and develop programmes for the next generation in their localities.

The island of Ireland has changed dramatically since 1979 and today’s demographics bear no resemblance to those in the late 70’s. In spite of this, there are many people who still live in polarised communities - they do not know, nor do they often get the opportunity to meet, those from a different religion or culture to them.

Co-operation Ireland is constantly developing programmes which enable people from these communities to participate in cross-border and cross community programmes.

In 1998 the organisation changed its name to better reflect the view that Co-operation is a two way process.

Our offices are in Belfast, Dublin, Armagh and Cork and sub offices in New York and London.