PRESS RELEASE
Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development to discuss OECD Rural Policy Review of Ireland 2026
22 September 2026
The Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development will meet tomorrow, Wednesday, 23 September, to discuss the OECD Rural Policy Review of Ireland 2026.
The meeting at 9:30am in Committee Room 3 of Leinster House will hear from Ms. Betty-Ann Bryce, Rural Policy Coordinator, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy John Paul O’Shea said: “The landmark publication of the first OECD Rural Policy Review of Ireland is a significant contribution to the review of rural policy throughout Ireland. The meeting provides a valuable opportunity for Committee members to engage and leverage OECD expertise and evaluate the key challenges and opportunities affecting rural Ireland identified in the review.
“This meeting arises from initial bilateral engagement with the OECD in February upon publication of the review and offers further opportunity to build upon external engagement and focus on the key recommendations that will also be considered as part of the publication of the new Our Rural Future Strategy covering the 2026-2031 period.
“This is a unique opportunity for the Committee to engage with the OECD on matters that have the scope to improve and contribute to building vibrant, sustainable and inclusive communities across Ireland and we look forward to a comprehensive discussion with Ms Bryce.”
The meeting in Committee Room 3 can be viewed live on Oireachtas TV.
Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.
ENDS//
