The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) is an income support scheme that provides part-time employment opportunities for farmers and fishermen and women who are in receipt of certain social welfare payments and who are underemployed in their primary occupation. It is a demand-led scheme and people who wish to participate apply directly to the IB that delivers the scheme in their area.
The RSS is delivered by a network of 36 local development companies and Údarás na Gaeltachta, known collectively as implementing bodies (IBs).
As you are aware the Department commenced a review of the RSS last year. The review explored all aspects of the scheme including the current and future role of RSS and the changes required to ensure its continuing relevance in a changing economic and environmental landscape; whilst also exploring opportunities to grow the scheme. Following a wide consultation process involving all stakeholders the review process is now nearing completion. It is intended to finalise the review and to have the findings of the review published in the coming months.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
