A perception that Kilkenny city has prospered while the rest of the county has not is addressed in a 10-year economic, cultural and social strategy unveiled last night.
The Kilkenny County Development Board document is the result of a two-year consultation in which 577 groups and organisations gave their views on services in the county.
A key finding is that discrimination is a major issue, with many groups saying the Equality Act had not impacted on their lives in any way. Prejudice, discrimination and gender imbalances need to be addressed, the report concludes.
The need for better co-ordination of services from authorities and agencies, the lack of third-level education facilities, poor rural transport and roads and inadequate youth and recreational services are highlighted.
The plan has four main aims: to allow the community to have greater control over local issues; to recognise the importance of the relationship between city and county; to encourage closer working relationships between groups delivering services; and to increase the economic and cultural wealth of the county.
Specific measures planned include steps to ensure women can reach their full potential; the report finds there is a low level of women in the workforce.