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20 November 2007 - Agriculture Minister meets rural support's new chairman

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, met with a delegation from Rural Support led by newly appointed Chairman, John Rankin.

Rural Support is a charity, jointly core-funded by DARD and DHSSPS, that offers a confidential listening ear and signposting service for farmers and rural communities across the country through the provision of a help-line that is staffed by trained volunteers.

Speaking after the meeting, the Minister said: “While I am already well aware of the assistance that Rural Support provides to rural dwellers, today’s meeting has been important in providing a comprehensive update on the issues raised by those who contacted the Charity’s help-line and website.

Minister Gildernew went on to say: “I recognise the importance of Rural Support’s role and I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and commend the contribution made by the Charity’s team of volunteers.”

Notes to Editors:

  1. The charity can be contacted via the help-line (0845 606 7 607). Rural Support also employs two full-time staff and has recently launched an interactive website as an additional access point www.ruralsupport.org.uk.
  2. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, Tel: 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.

Department of Agriculture and Rural Development News