Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2004
232 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when he intends to introduce the new scheme announced in the budget to replace the community employment scheme; the criteria for eligibility; the organisation which will operate the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5398/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am at present preparing detailed proposals on the rural social scheme to bring before the Government. To be eligible to participate a person must be on farm assist or possess a herd number and be in receipt of unemployment assistance, unemployment benefit, if previously on community employment, or disability allowance. Detailed guidelines for the scheme, including criteria for participation, the way it will operate, how it will be delivered at a local level, and a likely commencement date, are currently being addressed by my Department.
