DAERA publishes Summary of Consultation Responses on new long-term rural policy for Northern Ireland
Date published:
DAERA has today published a summary of responses to its public consultation on Rural NI: Our New Approach 2026-2041, marking a key milestone in shaping a new long-term rural policy for Northern Ireland.
The consultation, launched by Minister Andrew Muir on 9 March 2026, closed on 1 June 2026.
Rural NI: Our New Approach 2026-2041 is a draft policy designed to better understand, champion and support rural communities across Northern Ireland.
To support the consultation, 11 in-person public engagement events were held across Northern Ireland, and two online events, with representatives from more than 64 organisations participating alongside individual citizens.
136 responses were received in response to the consultation survey, that included 57 from individuals and 79 from organisations.
Marking the publication of the summary of consultation responses, Minister Muir said: “I welcome the strong response to this consultation and thank everyone who took the time to share their views and attend engagement events.
“The feedback received will help ensure the final policy is informed by the lived experiences, needs and priorities of rural communities across Northern Ireland.
“My Department will now carefully consider all responses before recommendations are brought forward. This will support the next stage of policy development before the policy is brought to the Northern Ireland Executive for consideration.”
The Summary of Consultation Responses report, which sets out the responses received to DAERA’s public consultation on Rural NI: Our New Approach 2026-2041, is available to view online at: Summary of Consultation Responses for Rural NI: Our New Approach 2026-2041.
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