The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is in county Mayo today for a number of engagements.

 Earlier today the Taoiseach visited The Town Hall Theatre in Westport where the government hosted a special forum on “Creating Stronger Rural economies and Communities”, part of the Project Ireland 2040 programme.

On his way in to the building the Taoiseach was greeted by placards calling for a public water supply between Westport and Louisburgh.

Following the launch of the Rural Strand of Project Ireland 2040, the Taoiseach will visit Castlebar at  3.30pm.

 He is expected to take a brief walkabout before going to Coady’s Bar, on Linenhall Street in the town.

Later in the afternoon the Taoiseach will travel to Ireland West Airport Knock where he will meet the board to discuss further state support and investment in the airport.

The Taoiseach told Midwest News this afternoon that the Government doesn't want rural Ireland to survive it wants it to thrive.