Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 331: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason a person transferring over to the rural social scheme who is in receipt of a reduced social welfare payment for an adult dependant, does not receive the maximum adult dependant rate on the rural social scheme, even though they receive the maximum rate as a participant; if he will review the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38932/05]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The rural social scheme was established to provide income support for low income farmers and fishermen and women who are in receipt of long-term social welfare payments and to provide certain services of benefit to rural communities. At present, the full RSS personal rate entitlement of €173.20 is paid to every participant on the scheme regardless of means, with the balance of pay entitlement being calculated in accordance with individual circumstances, having regard to dependents, as determined and certified by the Department of Social and Family Affairs.

If the social welfare payment made to any RSS applicant, prior to commencement on the scheme included a reduced rate for an adult dependant, as in the case in question, then that participant will only be paid that equivalent while on RSS. A similar approach has been taken in relation to tapered increases for qualified adults on the CE scheme. The rural social scheme is currently under review and decisions based on the review will be made in the near future.