Reflecting on another year of advocacy, collaboration and progress for rural communities across Ireland, the Irish Rural Link AGM 2026 was held in Athlone last Friday, 26th June, bringing together members, partners, staff, stakeholders and friends.
Newly appointed IRL CEO, Briain Smyth, delivered an ambitious high-level strategic roadmap for Irish Rural Link over the coming years, outlining a pathway to a more independent rural voice and to strengthening advocacy on behalf of rural communities across Ireland. Built on three pillars including broadening the diversity of funding streams, enhancing member services, and increasing earned-income capacity, the strategy recognises the importance of IRL’s objectives for rural Ireland and aims to grow the organisation’s resilience and safeguard it into the future.
A special highlight of the day was the celebratory lunch in honour of Seamus Boland, marking his outstanding tenure with Irish Rural Link and recognising his appointment and service as President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). Seamus has been a passionate and tireless advocate for rural communities for many years, championing policies that promote social inclusion, sustainable development and equal opportunities for people living and working in rural areas.
His leadership has not only strengthened Irish Rural Link but has also brought the voice of rural Ireland to the European stage. Throughout his career, Seamus has consistently demonstrated the importance of community-led development, partnership and civic engagement in shaping resilient rural communities.
Special thanks to Deirdre Garvey, Carmel Fox, James Claffey and Mary Cunningham for regaling us with their anecdotes of working with Seamus over the years and speaking to his exemplary legacy as former CEO of IRL. Further thanks to Seamus’s family for joining us to celebrate the occasion.
Irish Rural Link looks forward to building on the strong foundations established over the years and continuing to work with communities, policymakers and partners to create a vibrant, sustainable and inclusive future for rural Ireland. The AGM and celebratory lunch served as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the positive impact that committed leadership can achieve.
