The Charter for Rural Ireland makes a strong commitment to support the development of Ireland’s rural communities, according to the Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

He was speaking at the launch of the charter in Crank House, in Co. Offaly.

“The Government has a long term economic plan to keep the recovery going and to ensure that it is felt across all parts of Ireland.

“The Rural Charter underpins this objective, builds on the work to support rural Ireland and brings forward a number of new actions and initiatives.

“In addition to the regional Action Plan for Jobs, the launch of this charter makes a strong commitment to support the development of Ireland’s rural communities.”

The development of a specific Rural Development Policy Framework will ensure the ongoing and future sustainability of rural communities.

Primary responsibility for the implementation of the commitments of the charter lies with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government.

Minister Alan Kelly, and Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government and Minister Ann Phelan, were also in attendance at the launch.

Minister Kelly reiterated his commitment to rural Ireland and said “this charter will provide a solid framework on which future support for rural development can be built.”

“It will also reinforce and improve coordination and cooperation not only between Government departments and agencies but also between these bodies and rural communities themselves thereby ensuring that all interested parties are working together to support the sustainable development of rural Ireland.”