Ó Cuív praises the Rural Social Scheme response to weather-related difficulties in rural communities

Éamon Ó Cuív T.D., Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs today expressed his appreciation to all Rural Social Scheme (RSS) participants, their supervisors and the managers of the Local Development Companies for the considerable work they carried out within their rural communities in response to the recent weather related difficulties and for their continued assistance in the areas still affected.

This has been one of the most difficult periods of weather since the Minister launched the Rural Social Scheme in 2004 and he is delighted that the resources of the Scheme were put to such great use in response to the problems faced around the country.

“I would like to commend all those involved in helping to meet the urgent needs within their communities during the severe weather,” said Minister Ó Cuív.

“The 2,600 RSS participants made it their priority to support the vulnerable and isolated within their localities, in particular the elderly. They assisted in a number of ways including gritting footpaths and housing estates; cutting and delivering fire wood; supplying fresh water and filling water tanks for those without water, buying and delivering groceries, picking up prescriptions and in some areas, providing a friendly call service to those living in isolation.”

Minister Ó Cuív also thanked others who have been assisting in recent efforts.

“I would also like to commend the drivers of the Rural Transport Scheme buses and all others involved in assisting the RSS participants to deliver groceries, meals, prescriptions and other necessary items. There was a great demonstration of community spirit, with people pooling their resources to help in so many ways. I am gladdened to see that in a time of national need, consideration, warmth and empathy for those who are in greater need remains a high priority within our communities.

“What has been achieved by the Rural Social Scheme during these difficult circumstances derives from two valuable qualities that the Scheme possesses. Firstly, it is a locally-based Scheme that can be quickly redeployed to respond flexibly to local priorities. Second, it is built on harnessing the skills of the farming community and this has allowed the Scheme’s participants to help their neighbours even in the most difficult weather conditions. I express my appreciation, and that of rural communities throughout the country, to all involved with this great effort.”

Please see the attached list for details of work carried out by RSS participants around the country. For more information about the Rural Social Scheme, please visit www.pobail.ie.