Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2006
437 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if the rural social scheme payment is classed as income; if this payment is taken into account when applications are made for third level grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30548/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe payment that participants on the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) receive is regarded as income. The rate of payment is determined by the participant's personal/family circumstances and is based on their qualifying payment from the Department of Social & Family Affairs at the time of joining the Scheme and an appropriate top-up payment from the RSS. The manner in which this income is treated for third level grant purposes is a matter for the Local Authority or V.E.C. to which the relevant application is made.
