Kilkenny TD welcomes improvements to Rural Social Scheme

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Kilkenny TD, John McGuinness has welcomed the announcement by Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD, of a series of important improvements to the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) arising from Budget 2026.

Deputy McGuinness said the changes, which came into effect this month, represent a significant boost for rural communities and for those who rely on the Rural Social Scheme for income support, social inclusion and meaningful work in their own local areas.

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“I am absolutely delighted with this news,” Deputy McGuinness said. “The Rural Social Scheme plays a vital role in sustaining rural life across Carlow and Kilkenny. It supports essential community services while also providing dignity, purpose and additional income for participants, many of whom have devoted their lives to farming and fishing.”

He particularly welcomed the introduction of the new Rural Dweller Pilot, which will see 250 ringfenced placements made available from January 2026 for rural dwellers aged 50 and over who are in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment.

“This pilot is a very positive and practical response to the challenges facing the scheme, including declining participation,” Deputy McGuinness said. “It opens the door for older rural dwellers who may not meet the traditional eligibility criteria but who have much to contribute to their communities.”

Deputy McGuinness also praised the extension of eligibility to people with a defined connection to a farming or fishing enterprise, as well as the new provision allowing couples jointly engaged in farming or fishing to both access the scheme using a single herd number or fishing licence.

“These are sensible, fair and long-overdue changes,” he said. “They reflect the realities of modern rural life and family farming, and they will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the Rural Social Scheme.”

Highlighting the impact of the RSS locally, Deputy McGuinness noted that participants support a wide range of vital services, including meals on wheels, the maintenance of community facilities and local amenities, and assistance to voluntary and not-for-profit organisations.

“In many towns and villages, these services simply could not function without the dedication and hard work of RSS participants,” he said. “By strengthening the scheme, the Government is also protecting these essential supports for rural communities.”

Deputy McGuinness concluded by commending Minister Calleary for his clear commitment to rural Ireland.

“This announcement sends a strong signal that rural communities matter,” he said. “I will continue to work to ensure that Kilkenny and Carlow benefit fully from these changes and that the Rural Social Scheme remains a cornerstone of rural community life for many years to come.”