New policy promising big things for rural Cork
Improved rural transport in Cork is among the key commitments in an ambitious new rural development policy launched by the Government yesterday.
Cork is also set to see continued investment in local roads and permanent Government support for community centres as part of the new Our Rural Future 2026–2031 policy.
The policy sets out 33 commitments aimed at strengthening rural communities, supporting local employment, and making rural Ireland a better place to live, work, and raise a family over the next five years.
Welcoming the policy yesterday was Cork TD and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer (FG).
Minister Buttimer said the new policy would be particularly important for rural communities across county Cork. He said: “Rural Cork is a wonderful place to live, but we also know the challenges people face. Whether it’s a lack of public transport, the distance to essential services, or the pressure on local community facilities, these are real issues affecting everyday life.”
The new policy commits to completing the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, expanding Local Link services, extending town bus services, and continuing investment in regional and local roads. Some 185 new and improved public transport connections have already been delivered nationally under Connecting Ireland.
Minister Buttimer said: “For an older person living alone, a reliable bus service can be a lifeline. For a young person, it can mean being able to get to college or work without depending on a lift. For families, it means being better connected to the services they need.”
A major commitment in the new policy is the establishment of the Community Centre Investment Fund as a permanent Government support, alongside continued investment in libraries, sporting facilities, and recreational amenities.
Minister Buttimer said the commitment recognises the extraordinary contribution of volunteers and community organisations across rural Cork.
“From village halls and community centres to local sporting clubs and voluntary groups, so much of rural life depends on people who give freely of their time,” he said.
The initiatives set out in Our Rural Future 2026–2031 follow on from the Our Rural Future 2021-2025 strategy and are designed to complement wider Government commitments on rural housing, transport, digital connectivity, and the regeneration of rural towns and villages.
Speaking at the launch, the Taoiseach and TD for Cork South-Central, Micheál Martin, said the new policy sets out an ambitious vision for rural Ireland.
“It reflects our commitment to balanced regional development and recognises that realising our ambition for rural Ireland requires a coordinated, whole-of-Government approach, with rural communities at the heart of decision-making,” said the Taoiseach.
A series of regional events will be held across the country over the coming months to engage directly with rural communities on the priorities and commitments set out in Our Rural Future 2026–2031. The events will also provide information on the range of funding opportunities and supports available, including practical guidance on eligibility and application processes.