I propose to take Questions Nos. 31, 41 and 238 together.
I can confirm for the Deputies that the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) will continue in 2010 at its current level, following the provision made available for the Scheme in my Department's Estimates for next year. There are currently 2,600 participant places available under the RSS and 130 supervisor places (full time equivalents). With the reductions in certain rates of social welfare payments and the CE Scheme, there will be similar adjustments in RSS participant payment rates. However, the Scheme will continue to provide a very good source of additional income for part-time farmers and fisherpersons and a highly valuable resource for community activity in our rural areas. Since the introduction of the RSS, it has become a key part of community activity in many rural areas and is very popular with both participants and local community organisations. The Scheme provides resources to maintain and improve local amenities and facilities in our rural areas with a total of 1,828 community organisations benefiting from it so far this year.