Minister Canney highlights key Budget 2026 supports for Rural Social Scheme and Community Employment
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 implementation of key Budget 2026 measures strengthening the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) and Community Employment (CE), describing both as essential supports for rural communities and local services.
The measures, which took effect from 1 January 2026, expand access to the Rural Social Scheme while providing additional financial support to Community Employment sponsors to help sustain frontline community services.
Under Budget 2026, the Rural Social Scheme has been extended through a pilot of 250 ring-fenced places for rural dwellers aged over 50 who are in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment. Eligibility has also been widened to include people actively engaged in farming or fishing who do not hold the herd number or fishing licence themselves, as well as couples jointly engaged in farming or fishing who previously could only access the scheme through one partner.
Minister Canney said the changes reflect the realities of rural work and family life.
“The Rural Social Scheme is a cornerstone of rural communities. These changes ensure it remains fair, relevant and accessible, particularly for older rural dwellers and families working together in farming and fishing.”
Budget 2026 also provides an additional €1,000 materials grant to each of the 807 Community Employment scheme sponsors nationwide, helping them to meet rising overhead and operating costs.
Community Employment schemes support almost 20,000 participants and deliver vital services in towns and villages, including childcare, meals on wheels, community maintenance and social care supports.
Minister Canney said the additional funding will help ensure continuity of services.
“Community Employment schemes deliver real benefits every day in communities across the country. This additional funding will support sponsors to continue that work and sustain services people rely on.”
The total estimated cost of the Budget 2026 measures across both schemes is €3.49 million, with funding already provided for in 2026.