Chambers welcomes Fianna Fáil’s commitment to revitalising rural towns and communities

Senator Lisa Chambers, Fianna Fáil General Election candidate in Mayo, has welcomed her party’s commitment to revitalising smaller towns and rural communities as outlined in the Fianna Fáil election manifesto. Having long advocated for targeted investment in towns like Swinford, Ballyhaunis, Kiltimagh, and Charlestown, Senator Chambers is pleased to see these proposals as part of a broader strategy to address dereliction, economic stagnation, and infrastructure deficits in rural areas.

“I have consistently called for a renewed focus on smaller towns in Mayo, which are at the heart of our local communities. These towns have faced significant challenges, from vacant buildings and dereliction to a lack of targeted investment,” said Senator Chambers. “Fianna Fáil’s commitment to re-establishing the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs is a vital step forward in driving coordinated support for these communities.”

The Fianna Fáil manifesto outlines a comprehensive plan for rural regeneration and development, including:

- Establishing a Rural Communities Initiative to coordinate community development and town-centre rejuvenation through a dedicated Development Office funded by an expanded Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.

- Rolling out and funding Town Centre First plans for all towns.

- Introducing a new Towns Investment Fund of €2 billion to support infrastructure upgrades, public parks, pitches, and redevelopment of town centres.

- Supporting remote workers through the Connected Hub Voucher Scheme.

- Continuing to support the Post Office network and prioritising the relocation of State agencies to rural towns.

- Increasing funding for Local Improvement Schemes (LIS), CLÁR, and the Town and Village Renewal schemes.

- Working at EU level to secure additional LEADER funding under the next CAP.

- Introducing an Islands Infrastructure Fund to support island communities on a multi-annual basis.

- Ensuring all towns, including smaller ones, have equitable access to national infrastructure funding.

Senator Chambers believes that the inclusion of these measures will address the specific challenges faced by smaller towns in Mayo and create opportunities for growth and development.

“For towns like Swinford, Ballyhaunis, Kiltimagh, and Charlestown, these measures represent a chance to tackle long-standing issues such as dereliction and economic stagnation. The proposed €2 billion Towns Investment Fund will play a critical role in unlocking the potential of these areas by upgrading infrastructure and providing funding for redevelopment,” she explained.

“Empty and derelict buildings are more than just an eyesore; they hinder economic growth and discourage businesses and tourism. Fianna Fáil’s plan prioritises tackling dereliction while fostering vibrant town centres that support local businesses and communities,” added Senator Chambers.

Senator Chambers remains committed to advocating for the needs of Mayo’s smaller towns and ensuring that they receive the attention and resources required to thrive.

“Revitalising our towns is not just about funding but about creating a brighter future for communities across Mayo,” she concluded.