Fianna Fáil TD for Louth, Erin McGreehan, has said the launch of Our Rural Future: Rural Development Policy 2026–2031 marks a significant commitment to strengthening rural communities through targeted investment, improved services and new opportunities for growth.
The six-year strategy builds on significant investment in rural Ireland, including a record €628 million secured for rural and Gaeltacht communities in 2027 alone.
Deputy McGreehan said:
“This new policy is about ensuring that investment matches the ambitions of our rural communities, with a clear programme of investment, services and supports for the years ahead.
“Our rural towns and villages are at the heart of communities across County X and throughout Ireland. It is essential that people have access to the services, infrastructure and opportunities they need to continue living, working and raising families in these areas.”
Our Rural Future 2026–2031 contains 33 high-level commitments and more than 230 actions across five key areas: thriving rural places, high-quality public services, strong and diverse rural economies, resilient rural communities and sustaining the rural environment.
Deputy McGreehan highlighted the new support scheme for small and medium builders to develop mixed-tenure communities on serviced sites as particularly important for communities in County Louth.
“One of the most welcome elements of this policy is the support for small and medium-sized builders to deliver mixed-tenure housing developments on serviced sites in our towns and villages. In counties like Louth, local builders have a vital role to play in creating sustainable communities, providing homes for young families, older people and workers who want to remain in the areas where they grew up. By helping local builders get projects off the ground, we can increase housing supply, support local employment and ensure our rural communities continue to thrive.”
Deputy McGreehan concluded:
“I want to commend Minister Calleary on his work in developing this policy. This policy recognises that rural communities have different needs and that investment must reflect those needs. Whether it is improving local services, supporting businesses, tackling isolation or investing in community facilities, the priority is to deliver practical improvements that make a difference for people living in rural Ireland.
“I look forward to seeing these commitments delivered and will continue working to ensure that communities across Louth benefit from the investment and supports outlined in this strategy.”
For further information, reach out to Erin McGreehan.
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