91. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the strategies he has to develop long-term employment in rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38307/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

Many people in Ireland commute to work and spend a long time in traffic. Many of these people's jobs are not conducive to working from home. This is a cost in terms of finance, time and family life. Rural employment must be supported. I welcome the successful roll-out of the national broadband plan, which is ahead of schedule and under budget. What strategies do the Minister and his Department have to deliver long-term employment in rural Ireland?

Sentiment score: 0.18

Employment brings life to rural Ireland and helps support our unique culture, including things like the GAA and many other traditions that are part of our culture and such a positive part of our society. In particular, can the Minister look at ways of supporting the economic development sections of our county councils? Some have significant resources but many, including my County Wicklow, have limited resources. We also need to be careful regarding the tourism sector and Airbnbs. Airbnbs bring tourists to parts of Ireland and parts of rural Wicklow that are not on the tourist map. In a recent poll carried out across the country, an average of 93% of Airbnb hosts cannot or will not release their property to long-term letting.

Sentiment score: 0.21

Much of small-town Ireland has a shortage of housing yet no house building. House building would provide valuable employment. Currently, it is not viable to build houses as the cost to build exceeds the selling price. This is never mentioned in discussions on housing. However, it means that much of Ireland has no house building and yet there is a demand. We must look at strategies to allow house building in these areas through increased affordable housing, and reduce the cost of building a house, such as through the development levy waiver and other measures. I also want to mention pubs, coffee shops and small businesses in rural Ireland. These small businesses provide valuable employment and bring life to our rural communities. We need to reduce their cost base as many are not financially viable and will continue to close, resulting in a loss to the community.

Sentiment score: 0.03