The challenges and benefits of rural Ireland living are being discussed at the 30th anniversary of Irish Rural Link.
The event is taking place in Athlone today and is looking at the state of Irish farming, rural communities and the impact of Covid-19.
The one-day conference will also see calls for an improvement in the rollout of the national broadband plan.
Among the panelists is Supermacs founder and owner Pat McDonagh, who says rural enterprises are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit staff.
''It's one of the changes that the pandemic has brought, we will find this across the country and all businesses are stuck for staff at the minute. Everything, especially the hospitality business. There has been a change in the mindset. People want a work life balance. People are more anxious to have quality time with their families, and work regular hours, preferably as a Monday to Friday nine to five. That's going to bring a massive change to this country over the next few years.''
