Rural Social Scheme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2004

Tuesday, 6 July 2004

Ceisteanna (86)

Jack Wall

Ceist:

118 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he had discussions with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs about a new scheme that offers part-time work to farmers who work loss-making or unviable land. [20100/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The aim of the rural social scheme is to provide certain services of benefit to rural communities by harnessing the skills and talent available to low income farmers and fishermen. It also provides incomes support to low income farmers and fishermen who are in receipt of specified, long-term social welfare payments.

On 6 April the Government approved the scheme. It compliments a range of other schemes and measures provided by my Department.