Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the commencement of a number of improvements to the Rural Social Scheme (RSS), provided for under Budget 2026.

The changes, which have come into effect this month, are aimed at supporting the Rural Social Scheme and the rural communities that benefit from the services delivered by its participants.

They include the introduction of a Rural Dweller Pilot from January 2026, involving 250 ring-fenced placements for rural dwellers aged 50 and over who are in receipt of a qualifying weekly social welfare payment. The pilot was a key recommendation of the Review of the Rural Social Scheme published in July 2024.

In addition, two further recommendations from the review are now being implemented. These extend RSS eligibility to people with a defined connection to a farming or fishing enterprise, and allow couples who are jointly engaged in farming or fishing to both access the scheme using a single herd number or fishing licence.

Welcoming the developments, Minister Canney said the changes will help strengthen the scheme and support the continued delivery of vital local services:

“The Rural Social Scheme plays an important role in supporting rural communities, providing meaningful part-time work while ensuring essential local services can continue to be delivered,” Minister Canney said.

“The introduction of the Rural Dweller Pilot and the expanded eligibility measures are practical steps that respond to the findings of the 2024 review and help address participation challenges in some areas.”

Minister Canney said the RSS makes a tangible contribution to everyday life in rural Ireland.

“The work carried out under the RSS is central to rural life. These improvements will help ensure the scheme remains sustainable and responsive into the future,” he said.

There are almost 2,700 people currently participating in the Rural Social Scheme, with expenditure of approximately €52.6 million in 2025.

“By strengthening eligibility and supporting participation, these Budget 2026 measures will help ensure the Rural Social Scheme continues to make a valuable contribution to rural communities across the country,” Minister Canney added.