Minister Heather Humphreys today published the Department of Rural and Community Development’s second Statement of Strategy, covering the period 2021-2023.

The Department’s mission continues to be “to promote rural and community development and to support vibrant, inclusive and sustainable communities throughout Ireland”.

The Strategy sets out the Department’s key Strategic Objectives in delivering that mission over the next three years.

Welcoming the Strategy, Minister Humphreys said:

“The Department of Rural and Community Development has made an extremely positive contribution across our economy and society since its establishment in 2017.

“We have a crucial role to play in supporting all communities across Ireland to thrive and develop and I look forward to delivering on the ambitious programme of work outlined in our new Statement of Strategy.

“Supporting rural and community development across Ireland is more important than ever in the context of the challenges posed by COVID-19, Brexit, and climate change.”

Minister Humphreys continued:

“Covid-19 has demonstrated the strength and resilience that exist within our communities. I know that the work of the Department in fostering and nurturing this strength in an inclusive manner will help deliver this Strategy successfully.

“Opportunities for economic, social and cultural development within rural Ireland are there to be harnessed, notably around exploring the future potential of remote working.

“As we move beyond Covid-19, this Department will continue to work to improve the lives of people living in all communities, both urban and rural.”

In also welcoming the publication of the Strategy, Minister of State Joe O’Brien added: