1503. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications received for the fishing and aquaculture registered vessel fuel support scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42867/26]

The Government recognises the exceptional pressure that the sudden increase in the cost of fuel has placed on farmers, contractors and fishermen and women, and in response has allocated funding of €100 million to provide meaningful income support for these sectors.

On 21 May 2026 , I opened a scheme specifically designed to assist vessel owners in the fishing and aquaculture sectors. Up to €15 million was to be made available to eligible vessel owners at a critical time in the fishing season.

The Fishing and Aquaculture Registered Vessel Fuel Support Scheme is a straightforward scheme directed at those vessels most impacted by the sudden increase in the cost of fuel. I  asked Bord Iascaigh Mhara to operate this scheme on behalf of my Department .The scheme is designed to assist owners of fishing and aquaculture vessels to offset the increased cost of fuel experienced as a result of the conflict in the Middle East. The scheme will cover the months of March up to the end of July, which are a critical time in the fisheries calendar.

This scheme opened for applications  to BIM on 21 May 2026 and will close at 5pm on 12 June 2026. Details of the number of applicants received will be made available as soon as possible after the closing date.