125. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for an update on the publication of Our Rural Future 2026–2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37547/26]

Sentiment score: 0.01

Will the Minister give an update on the publication of Our Rural Future 2026–2030 and make a statement on the matter? As he knows, rural Ireland is at the heart of our country. It is where people live, work, raise families, run businesses and contribute enormously to our economy and society. Rural communities also face unique challenges, from access to housing and healthcare to transport, connectivity and sustaining local services. I am very hopeful that the new strategy will focus on balanced regional development, supporting rural jobs, revitalising our towns and villages, improving infrastructure and ensuring that people can continue to live and thrive in their own communities.

Sentiment score: 0.20

I welcome the Minister's commitment to the publication of the Our Rural Future strategy for the period 2026 to 2030. It is vital that we continue to deliver for rural Ireland through sustained investment and practical schemes that make a real difference in people's lives. We have seen the positive impact of investment in rural regeneration, town and village renewal, rural transport, broadband and community development projects right across the country. However, there is still more work to do. Rural communities want to see continued support for housing delivery, improved local services, stronger infrastructure and greater opportunities for young people to live and work in their own areas. Schemes that support rural businesses, farmers, tourism and community organisations must remain a priority if we are to keep our towns and villages vibrant and sustainable. The strategy now provides an opportunity to build on the progress that has already been achieved and to ensure no rural community is left behind over the coming years.

Sentiment score: 0.56

I thank the Minister, the Minister of State and the Department for the significant level of grant funding that has been delivered to Cork North-West in recent years for projects and community initiatives. I know that both the Minister and the Minister of State have been to Cork North-West in recent months, celebrating those projects, so I thank them. Across our towns and villages, we have seen the real benefits of investment through schemes such as the town and village renewal scheme, the CLÁR scheme, the outdoor recreation supports and the RRDF. These investments are helping communities to improve facilities, support local enterprise, enhance public spaces and make rural areas more attractive places to live and work. I acknowledge in particular the work of the local community groups in the area, Cork County Council, the local development companies and the volunteers who continue to drive forward these projects on the ground. Importantly, we have many more worthwhile projects in the pipeline across Cork North-West. The community has ambition and eagerness to continue improving those local areas. I look forward to working with the Minister, the Minister of State and the Department to secure continued support for these projects into the future. Continued investment in rural Ireland is essential to ensuring balanced regional development and strong, thriving communities.

Sentiment score: 0.62