The Rural Social Scheme was launched in 2004. 22 years old this year!
The scheme provides additional income to lower-income farmers and fisherpersons who are receiving certain social welfare payments. It also supports local communities by using the skills and experience of people working in farming and fishing.
To take part, a person must generally:
• be actively farming or fishing and hold a Herd Number or Fishing Licence
• be in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment
• be aged 25 or over
Participants work 19.5 hours per week. These hours are based on a farmer or fisher-friendly schedule. This ensures that participation on the scheme does not affect your farming or fishing activities.
Payment is based on the participants social welfare rate plus an extra €32.50, with a minimum weekly payment of €286.50. Participants may also receive extra increases for a qualified adult or child dependants.
A Class A social insurance (PRSI) contribution is paid on behalf of all participants in the scheme which helps build entitlement to a wide range of social welfare benefits including the State Contributory Pension.
In early 2023, the Department decided to undertake a review to look at the role of the RSS, its ongoing relevance the funding and resourcing required. It examined all aspects of the scheme including its rationale, societal impact and sustainability.
From 1 January 2026, the RSS eligibility rules have been widened to include people who have a “defined connection” to the farming or fishing activity. With the agreement of the Herd Number or Fishing Licence holder, the following people may qualify for the RSS:
• family members of the person who holds the Herd Number or Fishing Licence, OR
• people who are not family members but who are actively involved in the farm or fishing work
Couples farming or fishing may now both join the RSS using the same Herd Number or Fishing Licence.
For more information, contact Arran O Driscoll – 023 8834035 or 086 8412539