Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 108: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the plans he has to meet the challenge of rural depopulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25207/08]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The Government is firm in its commitment to Rural Development. We know that the challenges facing our rural communities differ from those in urban areas, and recognise also that strong, vibrant rural communities are essential to the well-being of the entire country. Ireland is a member of a European Union that prioritises rural development and diversification, and indeed, as the only country with a dedicated Minister with responsibility for Rural Development as a portfolio separate from Agriculture, Ireland is in many respects leading the way in this field. The Deputy will be aware that the mission of my Department is to promote and support the sustainable, inclusive development of vibrant urban and rural communities.

In pursuit of this mission, my Department operates a wide range of schemes designed to tackle issues such as depopulation, deprivation and social isolation. Details of all these schemes can be found on my Department's website www.pobail.ie. If the Deputy has any specific questions about these schemes I will be happy to answer them.