Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 257: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the steps he will take to expand the rural social scheme, which has been important in helping to deal with the problems of rural isolation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4186/10]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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There is currently provision for 2,600 participant places and 130 supervisor positions on the Rural Social Scheme.

While the Government has no immediate plans to expand the Scheme, I am determined to ensure that it continues to deliver valuable services for our rural communities and also provides meaningful work experience for the participants.

The value of the Scheme was very evident during the recent difficult weather conditions, when participants from around the country assisted many vulnerable and isolated people within their localities, in particular, the elderly.