WRDA responds to “Rural NI: Our New Approach” consultation

03 June 2026 – The Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA) has published our response to the Department’s “Rural NI: Our New Approach” consultation, highlighting the urgent need for rural policy to better reflect the lived realities of women and underrepresented communities.

In our submission, we welcome the opportunity to shape a renewed rural strategy but stress that gender inequalities, access to services, and structural barriers faced by women in rural areas must be explicitly addressed. We call for a more inclusive, intersectional approach to rural development, ensuring that women’s voices are embedded in decision-making at all levels.

WRDA’s response outlines key priorities, including improved access to transport, childcare, healthcare, and digital connectivity, as well as stronger support for community infrastructure and women’s participation in rural economies. We also emphasise the importance of co-design and meaningful engagement with grassroots women’s organisations.

WRDA is calling on policymakers to ensure the final strategy delivers measurable outcomes for women and contributes to a more equal, sustainable rural future.

-ENDS-