Leitrim Reimagined the Future of Rural Communities at Smart Towns & Villages Conference 2025
On Monday, 13th October 2025, Lough Rynn Castle in Mohill became the backdrop for a transformative event that brought together community leaders, innovators, policymakers, and European partners. The Smart Towns & Villages Conference 2025, hosted by Leitrim County Council as part of the Interreg Europe Digital Rural Project, brought together 120 people including community leaders, innovators, policymakers, elected representatives, and European partners.
With the theme “Reimagining Rural Ireland”, the day explored how digital infrastructure, collaborative networks, and empowered local leadership are reshaping rural life. The message was clear: small towns and villages, once seen as peripheral, are now stepping forward as hubs of innovation and regeneration.
Guided by MC Colin Regan, GAA’s Community & Health Manager, the programme featured 13 speakers across the day. Keynotes included Minister Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, alongside contributions from Justin Gleeson (Director, All-Island Research Observatory, Maynooth University), Dr. Karen Keaveney (Head of Rural Development, UCD), and David Minton (Director of Services, Leitrim County Council). They were joined by John Daly (Economist, Northern & Western Regional Assembly), Mary Reynolds (Chair, Mohill Town Team), Carolyn Owens (Interreg Europe Digital Rural), and Gareth Makin (Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht).
Launch of new Digital strategy: Digital Placemaking: A Strategy for a Connected Leitrim
The day also marked the launch of Leitrim’s new digital strategy Digital Placemaking: A Strategy for a Connected Leitrim. Leitrim County Council unveiled this visionary plan to connect businesses, support communities, and deliver digital placemaking across the county. The strategy aims to ensure all businesses have access to fibre broadband, with Minister Dara Calleary hailing its potential to “strengthen rural life.”
David Minton captured the spirit of the day: “This conference was a milestone for Leitrim. It wasn’t just about smart technologies—it was about empowering communities to lead their own transformation. By bringing together local leaders, innovators, and policymakers, we created a space for ideas, shared learning, and lasting impact.”
Attendees engaged in discussions, and networking opportunities, leaving with practical insights and valuable connections to inspire change in their own communities.
The event underscored Leitrim’s commitment to shaping a vibrant and inclusive rural Ireland—one where innovation and community spirit go hand in hand.
