The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed T.D. today welcomed the publication of ‘Realising our Rural Potential: Action Plan for Rural Development’ by Minister Heather Humphreys.

Minister Creed stated “the Action Plan for Rural Development gives a whole of government approach to rural development. These commitments outlined in the Action Plan for Rural Development align closely with Food Wise 2025, the ten year strategy for the agri-food sector and with other programmes operated by this Department”.

The agri-food sector is Ireland’s largest indigenous industry, with a turnover of €26 billion. It contributes 7.6% of GDP, 8.4% of employment and generates 10.7% of all merchandise exports. It is widely dispersed throughout the country and continues to lead economic recovery and growth.

The Department’s actions will focus on the themes of supporting sustainable communities and supporting enterprise and employment. Investing in the future of rural Ireland includes €1.2 billion per annum in direct payments to farmers under the Common Agriculture Policy, €4 billion from 2014 to 2020 under the Rural Development Programme, the Seafood Development Programme (2014-2020) and the Forestry Programme (2014-2020).

Minister Creed concluded “I look forward to working with Minister Humphreys and the Taoiseach on achieving the ambitious actions outlined in this Report.”

To view this Press Release as a PDF: DAFMPR 08/2017 (pdf 364Kb) 

Date Released: 23 January 2017