Central Bank Deputy Governor visits Irish Rural Link, highlighting the vital role of strong rural communities in social cohesion & sustainable development
Irish Rural Link (IRL) was delighted to welcome Colm Kincaid, the Deputy Governor Consumer & Investor Protection of the Central Bank of Ireland, on a visit to its national office last Friday, 6 February, marking a significant moment in the organisation’s 35-year commitment to advancing sustainable, inclusive, and resilient rural communities across Ireland.
The visit provided an opportunity to highlight Irish Rural Link’s longstanding work as the national representative organisation for rural communities, advocating for balanced regional development and ensuring that rural voices are central to national policymaking. Since 1991, IRL has played a pivotal role in ensuring that the voices of rural communities are heard at local, national and European level, and in shaping policies that address rural poverty, social exclusion, access to services, climate action, and economic sustainability.
During the visit, Irish Rural Link showcased a range of flagship projects that demonstrate the breadth and impact of its work. These include initiatives tackling rural transport and connectivity, supporting community-led climate and biodiversity action, promoting social enterprise and rural employment, and strengthening community participation in local and national decision-making. As part of the day’s agenda, the Deputy Governor had the opportunity to gain first-hand insights into the day-to-day workings of current projects such as the Breeding Waders European Innovation Partnership bird conservation project, the AgriKids farm safety education programme, CAP Network Ireland, and the National Meals on Wheels Network, amongst others. Collectively, Irish Rural Link’s projects have supported thousands of individuals and community groups, contributing to more vibrant, sustainable rural places.
Seamus Boland, CEO of Irish Rural Link and President of the European Economic and Social Committee, said the Deputy Governor’s visit was an important recognition of the role rural communities play in Ireland’s social and economic fabric.
“Sustainable rural development is not just about infrastructure or economic growth – it is about people, place and participation,” said Mr Boland. “Irish Rural Link works every day to ensure rural communities are central to policy decisions that affect their lives. Our achievements are rooted in strong community partnerships and a deep understanding of the realities of rural life. We welcome this visit as an acknowledgement of the value of community-led approaches and the need for joined-up thinking between economic and social policy.”
Deputy Governor Kincaid’s visit also facilitated discussion on the evolving challenges and opportunities facing rural Ireland, including demographic change, access to essential services, digital inclusion, and the transition to a low-carbon economy. Irish Rural Link emphasised the importance of long-term, place-based investment and policy coherence to ensure rural communities can thrive into the future.
Reflecting on the visit, Deputy Governor Kincaid said, “I appreciated the opportunity to visit County Westmeath. Meeting with local people and understanding their experiences with the financial system is central to the Central Bank’s mission. Regional civil society engagement of this kind helps us better understand the diverse needs of communities across Ireland and informs our work to ensure the financial system serves everyone. Thank you to Irish Rural Link for hosting the visit along with SWEETS, the National Meals on Wheels Network, and AgriKids.”
Irish Rural Link’s engagement with national institutions over its lifetime has helped to secure greater recognition of rural proofing, social inclusion, and community development within public policy. The organisation remains committed to working collaboratively with government bodies, statutory agencies, financial institutions and community stakeholders to deliver sustainable outcomes for rural Ireland.
The Deputy Governor’s visit underscored the growing recognition that strong rural communities are essential to Ireland’s overall economic and social well-being. Irish Rural Link emphasised that investment in rural areas delivers national returns, from supporting balanced regional development to strengthening social cohesion and sustainability.
