Coalition formed in bid to tackle rural decline

People in rural Ireland need a new, united voice and an effective means of making their views known to the powers that be, according to three key organisations in Kerry which have joined forces in a bid to halt rural decline.

The Irish Rural Dwellers Association, the IFA, and the GAA have formed a Rural Coalition that may become a blueprint for a national forum.

IRDA chairman James Doyle said they hoped the coalition would enter in to dialogue with government departments on rural issues. They also hoped to develop an employment strategy.