Michael Fitzmaurice

Outlined the need for addtional Information Officers to deliver the Citizens Information Service across the country. Intended result is increased funding from Department of Social Protection to employ additional Information Officers.

Pension Contributions::To propose that credited social insurance contributions for Farm Assist recipients are provided, as is done for Jobseeker's Allowance/Benefit.::Backdating Credits Pre-2007::To propose extending PRSI credit entitlements to farmers who were ineligible before…

Fair Deal Reform::To propose reducing the 5-year land/business transfer clause to 3 years to allow more farmers to benefit from the Fair Deal Scheme.::To propose that land leased under Fair Deal should be classed as “actively farmed” to meet succession criteria.::To propose…

To propose that the current rate of Class S is retained, and resist any increases until short-term benefits (illness, disability) are included in the scheme.

PRSI Inclusion for All Farmers and Spouses::To propose that all farmers and spouses/partners working on the farm, are to be included in the PRSI system to ensure entitlement to the contributory old age pension and reduce the risk of poverty in old age.::Dual Pension Calculation…

To propose that, as the Teagasc Green Cert Course is a crucial qualification for young farmers in Ireland. Approving these courses for SUSI Grants would encourage more students to pursue agricultural education.::To propose that, as per the Programme for Government, there must be…

General Employment Permits::To propose no further increases in GEP annual salary.::To propose the need for a full roll-out of a Seasonal work permit Scheme for all horticulture sectors based on the national minimum wage.::To propose that there are supports for rising employment…

To propose the introduction of an agricultural Rainy-Day Fund, which allows farmers from all sectors to put aside a small percentage of their gross receipts, whether in their co-op, specially assigned bank account or State Farm Volatility Fund.::To propose that the deferred…

Ukraine Civil Society Forum sought to inform TDs of concerns related to the consequence of the legislation particularly for older people, those with a disability or other vulnerability.

To welcome the Long -Term Carers Contribution Scheme which will make it easier for those who have cared for over 20 years for an incapacitated person to qualify for a State Pension (Contributory) when they reach pension age.

Raise awareness and generate support for an increase in the State Pension.

To secure more inclusive, constructive and well resourced social protection, education and training and employment policies and outcomes.

Ensure understanding of employers concerns regarding the proposed legislation

To secure more inclusive, constructive and well resourced social protection, education and training and employment policies and outcomes.

Irish Rural Link would get a meeting with the TD/Senator