Updated rural strategy promises investment in services and infrastructure
Local Link expansion and upgrades to water and electricity networks among key commitments under Our Rural Future 2026-31
Minister of State Charlie McConalogue has welcomed the launch of the Government’s Our Rural Future: Rural Development Policy 2026-31, which sets out plans for investment in transport, broadband, housing, utilities and rural services over the next six years.
The strategy includes plans to expand Local Link transport services, complete the National Broadband Plan, provide more co-working hubs and improve water and electricity networks, and housing. It also commits to strengthening the status of Irish as a working language in Gaeltacht areas.
The policy contains 33 high-level commitments and more than 230 actions across five areas: thriving rural places, high-quality public services, strong and diverse rural economies, resilient rural communities and a sustainable rural environment.
McConalogue, Minister of State for Sport and Policy, said the strategy builds on investment in rural Ireland, including a record €628 million for rural and Gaeltacht communities in 2027.
“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,” he said.
“Our rural towns and villages are at the heart of communities across Donegal 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.”
Several Donegal projects have received funding through schemes designed to deliver the Government’s rural development policy. They include the redevelopment of Swan Park in Buncrana, Killybegs town-centre regeneration including the restoration of Island House, and harbour improvements at Burtonport and Arranmore Island.
Multimillion-euro regeneration projects have also been announced under rural support schemes, including Carndonagh’s Tús Nua, Repowering Buncrana, Creeslough’s Community Regeneration Project and Ramelton Re-imagined.
McConalogue said the policy recognised that rural communities had different needs and that investment should reflect those differences.
“I look forward to seeing these commitments delivered and will continue working to ensure that communities across Donegal benefit from the investment and supports outlined in this strategy,” he said.