1394. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration when individuals eligible for the ex-gratia Stardust victims recognition payment scheme will receive payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43054/26]

On 16 February last, I announced the details the Stardust Recognition Payment Scheme. The scheme is available to all survivor beneficiaries of the original Stardust Victims Compensation Tribunal established in 1985. The Stardust Recognition Scheme can be accessed online at www.stardustrecognitionpayment.ie and applications can be made online or by post. A Stardust Recognition Payment Helpline has also been set up that is be available during office hours, for those who wish to request an application form to be sent to their home address.

Since the Stardust Recognition Payment Scheme opened in February this year, over 450 people have applied. The Scheme will be open for applications until 5pm on 17 August 2026.

Completed applications are reviewed by the Stardust Recognition Payment Unit for completeness. In making an application, applicants consent to providing any relevant information requested by the Stardust Recognition Payment Unit that is required to validate their application.  Once all criteria are met, the applicant is then contacted to finalise arrangements and information for payment. It is expected that the first payments will be processed in the coming weeks.