Louth councillor makes plea for rural communities

Cllr Dolores Minogue has said that Louth and rural Ireland must not be left behind in the new National Development Plan and that rural communities need to "thrive and not just survive".

In comments to the Dundalk Democrat in relation to the Government's National Development Plan, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District, Cllr Minogue, said that "as we start the process of the new Development Plan, we must be aware that rural Ireland cannot be left behind and in this case Louth. I fully support my colleague [Fine Gael Deputy] Joe Cooney, when he says "we must not leave rural Ireland behind in the new Development Plan".

Cllr Minogue continued: "I would fully agree with him, For too long many of our smaller towns villages have been overlooked when it comes to investment in infrastructure services and connectivity.

"The upcoming development plan must do more to support rural communities not just in words, but in action. By making our rural areas more accessible and better connected we given a fighting chance to our local schools, GAA clubs, community halls and small businesses. These are the cornerstones of rural life, and without them, the hearts of our communities begin to fade."

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The Ardee councillor added, "it's not enough to talk about balance regional development, we need to see tangible investment in roads, broadband, public transport, and housing that supports families to stay and build their lives locally. A well-developed rural development strategy will help ensure our young people don't feel forced to leave for opportunities elsewhere."

Referring to Louth, Cllr Minogue further added, "if we want rural Ireland, to thrive not just survive then the next development plan must deliver on the promise of equality, sustainability, and long-term viability for all our communities."