There has been a widespread welcome for a new Action Plan for regional development which was launched by the Government in Ballymahon, Co. Longford on Monday.
The €60m programme to help rejuvenate rural Ireland was launched by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who was accompanied by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD. A number of other Government ministers, including Minister Denis Naughten, Minister of State Seán Canney and Minister of State Michael Ring were also present.
The 273-point Action Plan for Rural Development includes a promise to revitalise 600 towns and villages, and support 135,000 new jobs within four years.
The plan contains 276 proposed actions in five sectors – Supporting Sustainable Communities; Supporting Enterprise and Employment; Maximising our Rural Tourism and Recreation Potential; Fostering Culture and Creativity in Rural Communities; Improving Rural Infrastructure and Connectivity.
