Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
30. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Social Protection the future plans he has for the rural social scheme and the Tús programme; and whether he will ensure these schemes remain adequately funded and accessible in County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2860/26]
View answerThe Department of Social Protection operates a number of employment support schemes for people on social welfare payments nationally, including in County Offaly, helping them to attain relevant skills and experience to secure sustainable employment, while also supporting communities across the country through the provision of vital services.
The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) provides part-time employment in community and voluntary organisations for underemployed farmers and fishers in receipt of qualifying social welfare payments. While Tús is an employment activation measure that offers short-term, fixed-duration work placements to long-term unemployed and other disadvantaged individuals.
Recent reforms have strengthened and expanded the RSS to support its sustainability and flexibility. The following three recommendations from the recent scheme review have been implemented from 1 January 2026:
A pilot scheme to include rural dwellers who are 50 years or over, in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment and whose primary residence is in a rural area.
• People engaged in farming or fishing who are not the holder of the herd number or fishing licence but who have a defined connection to the farming or fishing enterprise may now be eligible for the scheme.
• Both members of a couple who are jointly engaged in farming or fishing using one farming number or fishing licence may also participate on the scheme.
Tús is focused on shorter term work experience and skills development and the contract duration of 12 months ensures that as many people as possible, who are eligible to participate, can benefit from the scheme. Generally, Tús participants who have completed 52 weeks on the programme may progress onto CE where it is considered appropriate.
Eligibility for Tús has also been broadened in recent years to ensure those most in need can access opportunities. This includes people in receipt of Disability Allowance, young people with a low probability of finding work, refugees, Traveller and Roma customers, and Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection.
My Department has secured €28.9 billion in the recent budget for social protection measures. For 2026, dedicated funding of €55.7 million has been allocated to the Rural Social Scheme and a further €94.5 million for Tús. This substantial investment provides certainty for participants and Implementing Bodies and ensures both schemes remain fully operational and accessible nationwide.
I wish to re-iterate that my Department keeps all aspects of these programmes under ongoing review to ensure they continue to deliver the best outcomes for participants and communities.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
