Galway Bay fm newsroom – An Independent TD for Roscommon/Galway is calling for the appointment of a Minister for Rural Affairs.
Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice says the list of issues affecting rural Ireland is extensive and includes broadband and mobile coverage, lack of rural Gardai, job creation and flood prevention.
Currently, a Junior Minister position does exist for Rural Affairs – but Deputy Fitzmaurice says these matters can only be addressed by a full minister with proper resources at their disposal.
Deputy Fitzmaurice says recovery is not being felt in rural Ireland – and the situation must be immediately addressed by the next Government:
Independent Deputy in Kerry South, Michael Healy-Rae, is on the same page – he says creating a Minister for Rural Development could win their support.