Vol. 448 No. 3
43 Mr. Hughes asked the Taoiseach the Government's commitment, policy and strategy towards maintaining viable communities on our offshore islands, including Achill, County Mayo, in view of the 35 per cent decrease in population over the period 1961 to 1991; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1818/95]
This Government have a strong commitment to maintaining and developing viable community structures throughout the west, including on our off-shore islands. The appointment of Mr. Donal Carey TD as Minister for Western Development and Rural Renewal, with special responsibility for the development and improvement of living conditions on our off-shore islands, is a clear expression of this commitment.
As far as Achill is concerned, the Western Development Partnership Board, which was established as a consequence of the "Developing the West" initiative led by the Catholic bishops of the region, has been given the task of producing an action plan which will ensure population stability in the region by the end of the decade at 1991 census levels. This unique focus on maintaining the population of the region will complement and reinforce the work of current local development structures and ensure that the particular problems of the western region are given priority.
Minister of State Carey will also have responsibility for overseeing the implementation of a pilot programme for a more integrated approach to the delivery of public services in remote rural areas. The pilot programme will develop new systems of delivery which will help maintain the viability of isolated communities. While individual Ministers remain responsible for services delivered by their Departments and agencies, the focus for the needs of remote rural areas, especially the islands, provided by Minister Carey's appointment will facilitate a coherent response to the needs of these communities.
