Executive Approves Gildernew’s Rural White Paper And Rural Champion Proposals
Friday, 10 July 2009The Executive has agreed Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew’s proposals for the development of a Rural White Paper and a way ahead for implementing DARD’s Rural Champion work.
The proposals provide for a thematic approach to the development of the Rural White Paper. Five stakeholder led sub-groups will take forward work looking at five themes: Rural Vision, Rural Governance, Rural Services, Rural People and Rural Places. The Rural Champion includes proposals for the reinvigoration of rural proofing, support for activities that assist the better co-ordination / facilitation of rural stakeholders; development of a framework for dialogue between all Government Departments and rural stakeholders; and the creation of a rural evidence base and rural research programme.
Speaking after the Executive meeting the Minister said: “The Executive’s support today for my proposals for the development of the Rural White Paper – the first in the North – is a significant step on the route to this policy’s development. I am confident that this will enable rural stakeholders – the rural experts - to be fully involved in the process. This Rural White Paper provides a real opportunity to consider the needs of our rural communities across government and to help maximise the contribution made by rural areas to the region as a whole. I look forward to working with stakeholders and my Ministerial colleagues to address the challenges facing rural areas and in identifying measures we can take to help ensure the future sustainability for our rural communities.
“It was also vital that my Rural Champion proposals were agreed by the Executive. In particular it was crucial to secure cross Government support for the enhancement of rural proofing. This move will see all government policy makers receiving training on rural issues. The development of a support structure that will help Departments better assess the impact of their policies on our rural areas.”
The Minister concluded by outlining her role as a champion for rural communities within Government, adding:
“Although the issues that affect our rural areas cut right across Government, I have a clear role in championing on behalf of our rural communities. Through initiatives like the Rural White Paper and Rural Champion, added to our existing Rural Development Programme and rural anti poverty / social inclusion work, I am confident we are making real progress in ensuring that all of those who live in our rural communities receive the support they need.”
Notes To Editors:
1. The Programme for Government (PSA17) contains a commitment to develop proposals for a Rural White Paper. The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development will lead on the development of the Executive’s Rural White Paper
2. The Rural White Paper sub-groups will look at the many issues facing rural communities now and in the future and what solutions can be proposed to address these challenges. The groups are being asked to conclude their work by the autumn.
3. Work on developing the Rural White Paper will continue through the rest of 2009 and into 2010 with public consultation on a draft document taking place during 2010.
4. Development of the Rural Champion concept and reinvigoration of rural proofing also form part of PSA17. The concept was developed during 2008/9, including public consultation and liaison with the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee. The different strands of the Rural Champion work will be rolled out during the rest of 2009 and 2010.
5. Rural Proofing is a process which aims to ensure that the needs and special considerations of rural communities and areas are routinely and objectively considered as part of the policy development process.
6. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, telephone 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
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