The Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) is conducting a series of consultation events to inform the next phase of Ireland’s rural development policy for the period 2026-2030.
This future policy is a commitment in the Programme for Government and will build on the achievements of the current Our Rural Future 2021-2025 policy as we seek to fulfill our vision for a thriving rural Ireland.
Details regarding these events are set out in the table below. The first four events focus on specific themes and invites to these are being issued to a wide range of rural stakeholders and delivery partners. The remaining two meetings are also open to the public and are more general in focus.
DRCD would greatly value your input to these discussions around the opportunities and challenges of importance for rural Ireland. You are therefore invited to attend the consultation event most convenient to you. You should register via the relevant Eventbrite link as soon as possible as places are limited.
There will also be a consultation event as Gaeilge in late June. If you would like to register your interest in this event, or if you have any questions related to any of the events, please email rural.consultation@drcd.gov.ie
| Event | County | Date & Time | Venue | Link |
| Vibrant Rural Places | Mayo | 9 May 2025,
1.30pm – 5pm |
Great National Hotel, Ballina | Register here |
| Effective Regional Development | Donegal | 13 May 2025,
10am – 1.30pm |
The Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town | Register here |
| The Rural Economy | Waterford | 28 May 2025
10am – 1.30pm |
The Tower Hotel, Waterford | Register here |
| Vibrant Rural Places | Meath | 11 June 2025
10am – 1.30pm |
Newgrange Hotel, Navan | Register here |
| Public Consultation Meeting | Cork | 16 June 2025
6.30pm – 9pm |
Charleville Park Hotel, Charleville | Register here |
| Public Consultation Meeting | Offaly | 17 June 2025
6.30pm – 9pm |
Tullamore Court Hotel, Tullamore | Register here |
