Claire Kerrane
Ceist:47. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when the new action plan for rural development will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43916/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 17 December 2020
Ceisteanna (47)
Freagraí scríofa
My Department is currently finalising a new rural development policy for the period 2021-2025. The policy will be forward-looking and ambitious, and will provide the framework to respond to the issues which will affect rural Ireland over the next five years. It will take a whole-of-Government approach to the economic and social development of rural areas and will include tangible measures for delivery across a range of Departments and agencies.
The new policy will recognise the importance of rural communities and economies to our national wellbeing and development, and to realising a sustainable and inclusive recovery in which no one is left behind.
The process of developing the policy has included a wide range of consultation events with key stakeholders, including Government Departments, State agencies, rural stakeholder groups, young people, and the wider public. Their insights and views have helped to identify the issues that matter to people living and working in rural Ireland.
The inputs from these consultations are being factored into the policy and I am hoping to bring the final policy to Government for approval in January.