WASHINGTON, D.C.  — A key House Committee today approved Congressman Chris Smith’s legislation that would authorize a U.S. investment of $50 million over two years to the International Fund for Ireland, which is used to support economic development and advance the peace process in Northern Ireland.

 Smith’s bill, HR 1208 – The Northern Ireland Peace and Reconciliation Support Act – cleared the House International Relations Committee today.  Smith serves as the Committee’s Vice Chairman. 

“It would be a tragic mistake if, at this hour, the U.S. reduces its contribution to the IFI and was perceived to be retreating from its very visible and active role in the peace process,” Smith said.  “Our support of the IFI over the past 20 years has helped create thousands of new jobs, regenerate communities, and by simply bringing people from different communities to the same job site.  The IFI has been a consistent and effective medium for fostering reconciliation and building a peaceful future.”  

 “I recently returned from a human rights mission in Northern Ireland, and I am pleased to report that much has changed since my last trip there in 1997,” Smith said.  “There are many signs of hope and restoring funds to the IFI will help us attain our goal of securing a just and lasting peace.” 

 In addition to authorizing $50 million for the fund, HR 1208 urges the IFI to expand its efforts to focus more on direct reconciliation efforts.  

 “In addition to providing continued U.S. support to the IFI, HR 1208 will redouble efforts on direct reconciliation and look more closely at programs aimed at enhancing inter-community relations, citizen relations with the new police services, and programs that promote and protect human rights,” Smith said.