The RSS provides income support for farmers and their family members on long-term social welfare payments, while providing rural communities with services that enhance their social, physical, natural and cultural resources.
Delivered on behalf of the Department of Social Protection
The RSS allows low-income farmers who are unable to earn an adequate living from their holding to earn a supplementary income through work on local community development projects. Participants get farmer-friendly, part-time work in their own locality at times that do not interfere with farm work.
A farmer, or their spouse, civil partner, cohabitant, child or sibling, can work 19.5 hours each week. Contracts run from your start date to the following 31 March, and you may be considered for further terms if you continue to meet the criteria.
You must be at least 25 years old and be in receipt of Farm Assist, or have a valid herd (or flock) number and be in receipt of one of the following:
If you are eligible but do not wish to take part yourself, a member of your farm household may be able to take your place. Only one place can be allocated per herd or flock number.
Is your group interested in the services of an RSS participant for 19.5 hours per week? We would be delighted to hear from you. Typical work includes:
Talk to us
For more information on RSS, get in touch directly.
Tell us a little about what you need and we will point you to the right programme or person. All of our services are free and confidential.
Our programmes are funded and supported by
Supporting communities, families, enterprise and the environment across County Louth since 1995.
© 2026 Louth Local Development CLG · CHY 17993 · RCN 20068127 · Company No. 450158