Mayo minister launches final phase of consultation on Our Rural Future

THE Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has launched the final phase of consultation to inform development of the next iteration of Ireland’s rural development policy, Our Rural Future.

The new policy will build on the progress already made and will set out a renewed vision and new actions to respond to the opportunities and challenges facing rural communities.

Informed by the extensive engagement already undertaken, a consultation document setting out the proposed key themes and priorities for the new policy has been published and written submissions are invited by December 12.

Since its launch in 2021, Our Rural Future has delivered vital investment and supports, strengthened local economies, and improved quality of life across rural Ireland.

The next iteration of Our Rural Future is now being developed to respond to the evolving needs of rural economies and communities.

Over recent months, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht has engaged extensively with stakeholders and communities across the country to gather views on what matters most for rural Ireland and its people.

The consultation document published on gov.ie/consultations today reflects that engagement. It outlines the proposed key themes and priorities for the new policy and includes a series of suggested consultation questions designed to guide and support interested parties in preparing their submissions.

Launching the consultation, Minister Calleary said: “The launch of this final phase of consultation marks an important milestone in developing the next Our Rural Future policy, a key Programme for Government commitment.

“I want to hear your views on how government can continue to support rural areas and how we can ensure that national policy responds to the emerging opportunities and challenges faced by rural communities.”

The Our Rural Future 2026-2031 consultation paper is accessible here.