Budget 2026 Rural Social Scheme changes welcomed as boost for Mayo communities

A series of changes to the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) introduced under Budget 2026 have come into effect this month, with the measures expected to benefit rural communities across the country, including Mayo.

Changes to the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) include the introduction of a Rural Dweller Pilot from January 2026 involving 250 ringfenced placements for Rural Dwellers who are aged 50 or over and on a qualifying weekly social welfare payment.

The pilot was a key recommendation of the Review of the Rural Social Scheme, published in July 2024, which set out 19 recommendations aimed at improving the long-term sustainability of the scheme.

Further recommendations from the review have also been implemented from 1 January 2026. These extend eligibility for the RSS to people with a defined connection to a farming or fishing enterprise and allow couples jointly engaged in farming or fishing to both participate in the scheme using a single herd number or fishing licence.

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Commenting on the scheme changes, Minister Calleary said,

“As Minister for both Social Protection and Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht, I absolutely recognise the vital role that our Rural Social Scheme workers play in local communities right across the country.

“The RSS supports a range of vital local services such as meals on wheels, the maintenance and upkeep of local amenities, and other vital work in our communities. I am aware that some local schemes have been experiencing difficulties in filling vacancies, and this, in turn, has a knock-on effect on the delivery of important local services.

“These changes will make an important contribution to the sustainability of the RSS and will, I believe, ensure the RSS will continue to make a valuable contribution to Irish rural life in the years to come.” He added.

Minister Alan Dillon said communities in Mayo rely on the Rural Social Scheme every single day. 

“These changes are a welcome step. They recognise the real value of people who keep local services in Mayo going and ensure that rural areas aren’t left behind.”

“For many families in Mayo, the RSS is a lifeline that keeps people connected. Expanding the scheme means more people can stay active in their communities and continue contributing their skills and experience.”

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