The need for rural communities to be better represented in the Oireachtas was raised earlier this week by Independent Roscommon/ Galway deputy Michael Fitzmaurice.

The deputy highlighted what he sees as the need for a political party that represents rural Ireland, if communities are to survive in the country.

The Chairperson of Keenagh Community Development Association, located in the Crossmolina area, Brendan Lavelle insists deputy Fitzmaurice is correct.

Brendan told Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley that unless something changes, very soon, rural population and communities are under serious threat …