20. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the steps his Department is taking to increase training capacity in modern methods of construction nationwide to meet housing and infrastructure targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25972/25]

Sentiment score: 0.20

69. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the strategies being implemented to combat rural isolation, especially among the elderly population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25971/25]

Sentiment score: -0.20

I thank the Minister for his response. I acknowledge the valuable progress made through initiatives, such as the Local Link service which has provided vital transport connectivity for rural communities and older people in particular. Rural ageing, however, must be placed more centrally within the Minister's Department agenda. Rural Ireland is ageing at a faster rate than urban centres and while transport is critical, it is only one part of the picture. We need an integrated strategy that addresses rural housing, access to health services, digital skills and opportunities for social participation. Will the Minister's Department consider the development of a targeted rural ageing strategy to ensure older people in rural communities can age with dignity, independence and meaningful connection to the places they call home?

Sentiment score: 0.33

Following up on this, I wish to highlight the decline of rural services such as shops, post offices and pubs has done more than hurt the local economy. It has deeply affected the social fabric of rural life. These were not just businesses but gathering points and places where older people in particular had a chance to interact, feel valued and maintain a sense of belonging. This role has now largely fallen to local GAA and the church which do commendable work but it is simply not enough. Rural isolation is real and we must be honest: it is a public health issue that costs lives every day. Will the Department consider incentivising the operation of small rural shops and services that act as social hubs for the community? We need to think creatively and act decisively if we are serious about protecting rural life and supporting our ageing population.

Sentiment score: 0.19

72. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the steps being taken to address rural depopulation and encourage young people to remain in or return to rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25970/25]

Sentiment score: 0.18

What steps are being taken to address rural depopulation by encouraging young people to remain in, or return to, rural areas?

Sentiment score: 0.53

The continuing loss of young people from rural areas like Offaly is deeply worrying. The truth is that we are educating our children to live elsewhere. We equip them with the skills, ambition and drive but the jobs, housing and services they need to build a future in the locality are not in place. This trend is affecting everything - from school enrolments to local businesses and the fabric of rural community life. The longer it continues, the harder it becomes to reverse. There is no silver bullet for this: it demands joined-up thinking and a real commitment across the Government. Will the Minister take the lead in his Department to work with the Departments of housing, education, enterprise and Transport to ensure young people have genuine opportunities to live, work and stay rooted in their communities?

Sentiment score: 0.10

I wish to highlight one example which reflects the broader issue. I refer to the sharp decline in the number of young farmers. Farming is still the backbone of rural life, in particular in Offaly, yet fewer young people see it as a viable future. They face high entry costs, housing challenges and limited local supports. This is not just about agriculture, it shows how rural Ireland is becoming less accessible for the next generation. If we do not act, we will not just be losing farmers but community leaders, volunteers and local families that hold rural life together. I urge the Department to recognise that rural regeneration depends on a strong, diverse rural economy, one that includes farming, but also services, trades and small enterprises. Will the Minister ensure these voices and sectors are fully supported as part of his Department's future planning?

Sentiment score: 0.25