The unique added value

Just back from the IPC staff day which brought together staff from all partner organisations in the consortium to reflect, brainstorm and plan.  There was a resounding consensus that the consortium approach to peace building and nurturing the development of communities was a unique added value of IPC's work. 

The dynamism and energy of all staff involved in IPC (and two new facilitators present today) has demonstrated the support, inclusivity and commitment that has fuelled the development of the programme.  Of course, with a joined up approach, which comprises four separate organisations who have developed their own cultures and identities over the past forty years, there will be challenges. 

Irish Peace Centres creates a safe space where groups focus on a task and can talk honestly and openly.  The outcome of bringing those groups together is not always a 'picture perfect' scenario but it is the process of learning and communication that is invaluable.  Individuals and groups take risks, broaden their understandings and explore the unfamiliar - what we learn from this can have a broader impact.  The positive outcomes of what IPC does and the ripple effects of the work carried out at community level far outweighs any minor diffculties that may arise from a distinct approach to achieve positive impact at some level - an approach that has little parallel in our society.

When discussing the "integrated approach," it was clear that there needs to be an emphasis on how this level of integration extends only so far as an interconnected or interrelated approach.  Integration is not about merging the identities of four organisations under Irish Peace Centres, but rather supporting, nurturing, developing the collaborative work of the partners to achieve the greatest benefit for the communities, groups and all involved in our work.  The old adage - "the whole is greater than the sum of its equal parts" really does ring true in the context of IPC's work in peace building and reconciliation.  It is hoped that the benefit of this rings equally true for all the participants in our activities.