Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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603. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the number of participants on the rural social scheme to date in 2017; the reason the extra 500 participants promised by her predecessor have not been recruited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31306/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware, the rural social scheme (RSS) provides employment opportunities for low income farmers and fishermen who are currently in receipt of specified social welfare payments. While communities benefit from the skills and talents of local farmers and fishermen, participants have the opportunity to improve existing skills, or develop new skills.

In recognition of the significant work undertaken in rural communities under the Scheme, the Government announced, as part of the social welfare budget package for 2017, an additional 500 places for the scheme. These places became available with effect from 1st February 2017 and bring the total number of available participant places to 3,100.

As of 30 June 2017, there were 2,683 participants on RSS. While the overall responsibility for the operation of the RSS rests with the Department, it is implemented at a local level by 35 Local Development Companies and Údarás na Gaeltachta in the Gaeltacht areas (known as the Implementing Bodies). While the Implementing Bodies have responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the scheme, including recruitment, I want to assure the Deputy that my Department is working closely with them to ensure that all the places are rolled out as quickly as possibly over the coming months.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.