Minister guest at meeting

Laurencetown Community Centre is the venue for a pubic meeting on rural issues on Thursday, January 21, at 7.30pm.

The meeting will be addressed by Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle Gildernew.

Upper Bann MLA John O’Dowd, who organised the meeting, explained that the aim of the evening was to give the rural community an opportunity to hear at first hand from the Minister.

It will also allow the Minister to hear the views of the local community and get an understanding of the issues that affect life in this rural area.

The Sinn Fin Assembly Member said: “Along with my colleague Councillor Dessie Ward, I have dealt with a number of issues which are specific to the rural community.

“These issues range from farming matters to concerns about the social and economic future of small rural communities and we felt that it was important that rural dwellers have access to the decision makers who affect their daily lives and livelihoods.

“I am delighted that the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew has agreed to take part in this public meeting which presents an opportunity for the rural community to hear at first hand from the Minister and to put their questions and points of view to her.”

Mr O’Dowd called for the community in the greater Laurencetown area, and indeed everyone with an interest in rural affairs, to take advantage of this opportunity to have the local rural voice heard.

He added: “The Minster will speak on the Department’s current work and future plans and then the meetings will be opened up to questions and comments from the public.

“It is a chance for the local rural community to exchange views with the person responsible for making decisions that affect their future. Everyone with an interest in rural affairs should attend and make the most of this opportunity to have their voice heard.”