I understand that the person referred to by the Deputy had expressed an interest in joining the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) on 14th June 2007. At that time, Galway Rural Development Company (GRDC) outlined the eligibility conditions for the Scheme, including the qualifying payments from the Department of Social and Family Affairs (D/SFA).
Because of his particular circumstances, the person concerned was advised to apply for the Farm Assist payment from the D/SFA in order to determine his eligibility for the Scheme. However, he did not wish to pursue an application for this payment.
I now understand that the person is due to take up a place on a Community Employment Scheme with effect from Monday next, 8th October 2007 and he has been advised to contact GRDC if he is interested in joining the RSS in the future.