08/04/2026
Eighth Rural Needs Monitoring Report Published by DAERA Minister
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir MLA has released the eighth Rural Needs Annual Monitoring Report, documenting how public authorities are addressing the specific requirements of rural residents.
Under the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, public bodies are legally required to consider the economic and social needs of those living in rural areas when developing policies and planning services. The newly published report serves as a formal record of these efforts, detailing 666 Rural Needs Impact Assessments carried out by government departments, local councils, and other public authorities.
The report indicates a strengthening of the decision-making process, ensuring that issues such as infrastructure limitations and access to essential services are prioritised. By embedding these considerations, authorities aim to provide more balanced and tailored outcomes for rural neighbourhoods.
Minister Muir said: "I commend the efforts of all the public authorities who have contributed to this report. Their work demonstrates a growing awareness of rural needs and a unified commitment to achieving fairer results for rural communities."
The Minister concluded: "I remain steadfast in my dedication to supporting rural areas and ensuring that policymaking continues to reflect the realities of rural life. My Department will continue to work in partnership with the public authorities to promote inclusive, sustainable and resilient rural communities."
Under the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, public bodies are legally required to consider the economic and social needs of those living in rural areas when developing policies and planning services. The newly published report serves as a formal record of these efforts, detailing 666 Rural Needs Impact Assessments carried out by government departments, local councils, and other public authorities.
Minister Muir said: "I commend the efforts of all the public authorities who have contributed to this report. Their work demonstrates a growing awareness of rural needs and a unified commitment to achieving fairer results for rural communities."
The Minister concluded: "I remain steadfast in my dedication to supporting rural areas and ensuring that policymaking continues to reflect the realities of rural life. My Department will continue to work in partnership with the public authorities to promote inclusive, sustainable and resilient rural communities."
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