Urban-rural divide in economic recovery

THE Government must develop more policies to tackle the two-tier economic recovery, urged the president of Macra na Feirme.

The call came as a survey showed seven-out-of-10 people living in rural Ireland feel more effort must be made to promote job growth in rural communities.

At the launch of Macra na Feirme’s 10th annual ‘Know Your Neighbour Weekend’ campaign, where people are asked to stage events in their community on July 25 and 26, it was highlighted that 35pc report issues with broadband services in rural areas, compared to just 5pc in urban areas.

Sean Finan, president of Macra, said the Government must address the “urban/rural two-tier nature” of the economic recovery.

Rural Affairs Minister Ann Phelan said the neighbourhood initiative, supported by Calor, was to be welcomed as some people living in isolated areas in rural areas were “afraid”. Ms Phelan said rural broadband was of “economic importance” and remained a priority.