Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

That is helpful. I am glad those seeking engagement in person were facilitated.

The Minister has spoken about engagement and collaboration on the draft plan. I reiterate the point that the possibility of success in developing a ten-year plan is reduced if the main stakeholder is not on board. Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann is a really good organisation, representative of all those islands which people call home. It does great work, and if it is on board, it will be a success.

I also want to mention island-proofing. I know the Minister is working on rural-proofing. Given it has been interdepartmental work to date, I hope island-proofing of policies will be included in the strategy.

See this speech in context