The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) is an income support initiative, sponsored by the Department of Social Protection, that aims to provide low-income farmers and fishermen/women with an additional source of income/those who are unable to earn an adequate living from their primary occupation.
In return for RSS, individuals must provide services that are deemed to be of benefit to rural communities and/or local amenities.
What kind of services do those receiving RSS carry out?
The type of work carried out by RSS recipients is generally seen as an appropriate community-based project. Examples include:
- Social care and/or care of older people
- Environmental maintenance work
- Clerical or administrative work
- Preserving and enhancing public walking routes
- Countryside and village enhancement
How many hours of work are involved under the RSS?
Farmers and fishermen/women will be required to work 19.5 under the scheme.
The period of contract for such work is from the start date up until March 31st of the following year. Your contract may then be considered for extension, provided that you continue to meet all relevant RSS criteria.
Who qualifies for the RSS?
In order to qualify for payments under the RSS, you must be in receipt of a social welfare payment, such as Jobseeker’s Allowance, Jobseeker’s Transitional payments, or Disability Allowance.
Alternatively, you may also be eligible for RSS if you are over the age of 25 and in receipt of Farm/Fish Assist.
What are the rates of payment for the RSS?
This will depend on your current Department of Social Protection payment. As of January 2023, however, the minimum RSS weekly rate is €247.50.
How do I apply for the RSS?
The RSS is locally administered, meaning that you will have to contact your local RSS implementing body in order to apply, and/or for further information on the scheme.
*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.*
