Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 200: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he is satisfied that the views he expressed in relation to the provision of housing in rural areas is being adhered to by the various local authorities; if his attention has been drawn to attempts to reduce rural populations by restrictive procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32835/07]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) addresses many of my concerns on issues such as rural housing. The rural settlement policy framework contained in the NSS, which represents overall Government policy on rural housing, aims to sustain and renew established rural communities while strengthening the structure of villages and smaller settlements to support local economies. In this way it seeks to ensure key assets in rural areas are protected to support quality of life and that rural settlement policies are responsive to the local circumstances of different areas.

The guidelines for planning authorities on sustainable rural housing published by Dick Roche T.D., former Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, provide a detailed framework for planners, based on the approach set out in the NSS regarding rural housing policy. The guidelines reflect my own view that rural housing within the confines of good planning practice is appropriate. These guidelines are important in ensuring clarity and consistency in the implementation by planning authorities of Government policy on rural housing.