Call to increase numbers on Rural Social Scheme as demand grows in Galway

Galway Bay fm newsroom - The government is being urged to increase the number of places available on the Rural Social Scheme as demand grows in Galway.

The Rural Social Scheme was set up for farmers on low income and offers paid employment for jobs including maintenance work and care for older people.

The number of participants on the scheme in Galway East is currently capped at 218 but there are understood to be at least 40 applicants on a waiting list.

Galway East TD Sean Canney has voiced concerns that the July stimulus package doesn't provide for any increase.

Deputy Canney argues that without these schemes there would be widespread isolation of vulnerable people, especially during lockdown....