227. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that some eligible bus operators missed the application deadline for the road transporters support scheme (RTSS) due to exceptional operational pressures during the peak school transport and tour season; whether his Department will consider accepting late applications in exceptional circumstances where there is no prejudice to the administration of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51750/26]

237. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Transport if a late application (details supplied) under the road transports support scheme can be accepted in circumstances where the applicant missed the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51886/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 227 and 237 together.

The Road Transporters Support Scheme (RTSS) opened at noon on 20 May 2026 and closed at noon on 12 June 2026. 4,406 applications were submitted to my Department by licenced hauliers, licenced passenger operators, and the own account sector. The applications are now being assessed against the Scheme eligibility criteria to ensure that payments are only made to eligible businesses in respect of eligible vehicles. This will be finalised as quickly as possible and payments made to successful applicants in the coming weeks.

My Department will be establishing an appeals process for applicants and will be giving consideration to allow those who missed the application deadline to make an appeal for a late application, if substantive evidence of why they could not apply is provided. Further detail on this will be made available as soon as possible.