Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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908. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality for an update on the formation of a new rural safety strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24453/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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Community safety is a top priority for my Department and everyone has the right to be safe and feel safe in their communities. Rural Ireland is no exception.

In 2019, the National Rural Safety Forum was established. The Forum comprises of a broad range of organisations, including my Department, An Garda Síochána, the IFA and stakeholders who share the common purpose of ensuring rural safety.

The Forum works to develop a nationwide network for the distribution of consistent and highly effective crime prevention advice, to increase engagement within communities and to prevent and reduce opportunities for crime. Minister of State Niall Collins addressed the most recent meeting of the Forum last month and the Forum will meet quarterly during 2025 to continue its work to develop Ireland’s second national Rural Safety Plan.

My Department published the first national Rural Safety Plan in 2022. My officials are currently drafting the Rural Safety Plan 2025 - 2027 which will be published later this year. The Plan’s vision is to ensure people and communities in rural Ireland feel safe and are safe in their homes, places of work, and their local environments.

Achieving this vision requires a multiagency, collaborative approach including everything from having more visible Gardaí in the community to providing safe public spaces and amenities. My Department are continuing to work closely with the National Rural Safety Forum to develop impactful actions for the upcoming Rural Safety Plan.