Communities in Cork to Benefit from Changes to Rural Social Scheme – O’Shea
Jan 27, 2026
A number of changes to the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) arising from Budget 2026 have come into effect which will benefit communities in Cork, Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul O’Shea has said.
Changes to the RSS include the introduction of a Rural Dweller Pilot from January 2026 involving 250 ringfenced placements for Rural Dwellers who are aged 50 or over and on a qualifying weekly social welfare payment.
This was a key recommendation of the Review of the RSS, published in July 2024, which included 19 recommendations to address the sustainability of the RSS and to ensure it continues to provide income support, social inclusion, and service delivery in rural communities.
Deputy O’Shea TD said “Communities in Cork rely on the Rural Social Scheme every single day, so these changes are a welcome step. They recognise the real value of the people who keep local services in Cork going and ensure that rural areas aren’t left behind. In addition to the Rural Dweller Pilot, two further review recommendations have been introduced since 1st January 2026, one which extends RSS eligibility to people with a defined connection to a farming/fishing enterprise and a second which allows a couple who are jointly engaged in farming/fishing to both access RSS using the one herd number or fishing licence.
The Rural Social Scheme is an income support scheme that provides part-time employment opportunities for underemployed farmers and fishers who receive specific social welfare payments. There are almost 2,700 people participating in the RSS at present, with an expenditure of some €52.6 million in 2025.
The introduction of the Rural Dweller Pilot and the other recommendations will make an important contribution to addressing the issues faced by the RSS due to declining participation, while also ensuring that key local community services continue to be provided in rural areas.
“For many families in Cork, the RSS is a lifeline that keeps people connected. Expanding the scheme means more people can stay active in their communities and continue contributing their skills and experience,” concluded Deputy O’Shea.
