Some €50m is to be invested in collaborative approaches for job creation in rural Ireland, the Government announced today in it’s Action Plan for Rural Ireland.

‘Realising our Rural Potential: The Action Plan for Rural Development’ was launched by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister for Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys.

The Action Plan is the first ever whole-of-government strategy aimed at delivering real change for people living and working in rural Ireland.

The objective of the plan is to unlock the potential of rural Ireland through a framework of supports at national and local level which will ensure that people who live in rural areas have increased opportunities for employment locally, and access to public services and social networks that support a high quality of life.

It is the first plan of its kind to take a cohesive and coordinated approach across the whole of Government to the implementation of both economic and social policies that impact on rural communities.

The Action Plan was prepared following a consultation process which included engagement with all Government Departments, meetings with key rural representative bodies and a series of regional workshops.

The Plan contains 276 actions across five key pillars, all of which aim to improve both the economic and social fabric of rural Ireland.

The five pillars are:

Supporting Sustainable Communities.
Supporting Enterprise and Employment.
Maximising our Rural Tourism and Recreation Potential.
Fostering Culture and Creativity in Rural Communities.
Improving Rural Infrastructure and Connectivity.

Speaking today, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny said that the development and revitalisation of rural Ireland is a key priority in the Programme for a Partnership Government.

“We can do more and do better to drive the creative spirit of rural Ireland for the benefit of everybody, young and old alike.”

“We will ensure that local communities have increased opportunities for jobs, and access to public services and social networks that support a high quality of life.

“Chair a Cabinet Committee on Rural Ireland, where I will be pushing all Government Ministers to deliver initiatives under their individual portfolios which will have a positive impact on rural Ireland.

“We want to ensure that no community is left behind as we take on the causes of disadvantage.

“This Plan will unlock the potential of rural communities nationwide and deliver the best possible results for our people.”

Speaking at the launch Minister Humphreys said that she believes passionately in rural communities and as someone who has lived and worked in rural Ireland throughout her life, she has seen, first-hand, the commitment and determination of rural communities to succeed.

“Through this Action Plan, I want to empower rural communities to realise their full potential. This is the first time that a cross Government plan, with targeted actions, has been produced to positively impact on rural communities.”

Minister Humphreys has also announced the launch of a new website www.ruralireland.ie which will act as a hub for information on services and supports for rural dwellers.

You can read the Action Plan in full on the Department’s website.