Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 210: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason there are no vacancies on the rural social scheme; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a waiting list of applicants for this scheme; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact there is much work to be done at community level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3172/07]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

When the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) commenced in July 2004, there were 2,500 places available. In September 2005, a further 100 places were provided and as of Friday last, 26th January, there are 2,591 participants on the Scheme. All Implementing Bodies maintain a waiting list of applicants in order to replace participants who leave the Scheme and fill vacancies as they arise.

As the Deputy is aware, the Scheme aims to encourage farmers and fishermen to continue to farm and fish while providing them with additional financial support. In addition, the various skills widely available amongst our farmers and fishermen are being harnessed for the benefit of rural communities. I am fully aware that there is much work to be done at a community level and am very happy that all of the work undertaken as part of the Scheme is very beneficial to the communities concerned.

The RSS has become a key part of many rural communities and is very popular with both participants and local sponsors. In this context, the Deputy should note that funding for the RSS for the period 2007-2013 is included in the recently published National Development Plan. This confirms the Government's continued and on-going commitment to the Scheme in the coming years.