124. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications received for the fuel income support scheme to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35739/26]

The Fuel Income Support Scheme opened for applications last Wednesday May 6th and remains open until 27th May 2026.  More than 1,270 applications were submitted to the Fuel Income Support Scheme in its first two days.

I introduced a scheme after engagement with the farm representative bodies that is straightforward, targeted and capable of getting money to farmers and farm contractors very quickly. The need for payments to start as soon as possible has been emphasised and we are enabling this and will continue to assist both farmers and farm contractors with their applications.

My Department engaged with representative bodies in terms of scheme design and operation on an ongoing basis. A meeting was held on the morning of the scheme opening with stakeholders to demonstrate the application system.  My Department will continue to assist both farmers and contractors with their applications.

The scheme will, for the first time, provide a direct support to farm contractors, recognising the vital work they play in our farming systems.

The application form has been designed to minimise the administrative burden and the number of applications to date indicates how straightforward the application process is for both farmers and contractors.