The Rural Social Scheme was launched in May 2004 to provide an income supplement to low income farmers and fisherpersons, while at the same time providing certain services of benefit to rural communities. The Scheme requires Participants to work 19.5 hours per week and is administered in a farmer/fisherperson-friendly manner allowing Participants to work flexible hours.
At present there are a total of 2,600 Participant and 130 Supervisor places throughout the country. However, this is subject to ongoing review.
While responsibility for the operation of the RSS rests with the Department of Social Protection, it is managed at a local level, on behalf of the Department, by the Local Development Companies (LDCs) and in conjunction with Údarás na Gaeltachta in the Gaeltacht areas. You should in all instances contact your
local Implementing Body for any further information, or for an application form.
The Department is also supported by
Pobal, who carry out administrative functions such as the payroll and operation of a help desk on its behalf.