Fianna Fáil vows to appoint rural minister

Fianna Fáil has pledged to appoint a minister for community services and rural development, if in government.

The measure is one of a number to be announced later today, when the party launches its ‘Manifesto for Rural Ireland’. The policy document, produced by Fianna Fáil agriculture spokesperson, Éamon Ó Cuív, and community affairs Spokesperson, Bobby Aylward, will outline the party’s proposals for rural services, infrastructure and employment.

The party says it will maintain GP presence in rural areas by increasing the rural practice allowance for doctors, from €16,216.07 to €25,000, and will allocate €5m to pay GPs to attend house calls in rural areas.