Changes recently announced by Minister of State Joe O'Brien regarding the Rural Social Scheme have been welcomed by Galway Rural Development.
The Minister announced earlier this week that these changes were imminent following the publication of a review of the farmer's scheme.
The changes announced by Minister of State Joe O'Brien will allow a farming or fishing couple to both access the scheme, with each using the same herd number or fishing licence simultaneously.
Furthermore, participants aged over 60 will be permitted to remain in the scheme until they reach 66, without any further means test or renewal process.
Addressing the Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands, the Minister said there will be no RSS quota or limit as the new changes are piloted and these changes could be implemented within a month.
This announcement has been welcomed by Galway Rural Development, one of the largest scheme operators in Ireland.
Chairperson Pete Roche said initially, there will be 250 new rural dwellers pilot places that do not necessitate a direct link to farm payments and that is significant
In a statement to Galway Bay FM News, Councillor Roche added that there is still work to be done but is confident that the review recommendations will significantly contribute to the sustainability of the RSS.
