Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, is encouraging farmers and agricultural and forestry contractors to apply for the Government’s new Fuel Income Support Scheme, which has now officially opened for applications.

The scheme has been introduced in response to the sharp increase in the cost of marked gas oil (MGO), or green diesel, and is aimed at supporting those involved in primary agricultural production, including forestry.

The Government has allocated €100 million in funding across the agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture sectors, with the farming and agri-contractor scheme covering the period from March to the end of July 2026.

Minister Canney said: “This scheme is designed to provide support to farmers and contractors who have been under real pressure due to rising fuel costs over recent months.

“I would strongly encourage eligible applicants not to leave this until the last minute. Farmers and contractors should make sure they have their receipts, invoices and fuel records ready so they can complete their applications as smoothly as possible.”

Under the scheme, applicants will make a self-declaration of their marked gas oil usage during 2025 based on receipted expenditure and supporting statements. Applications will be subject to risk-based checks.

Farmers can apply online through MyAgFood using their herd number, while agricultural and forestry contractors can download the relevant application forms from the Department of Agriculture website and submit completed forms and supporting documentation by email to [email protected] or to the postal address provided on the forms.

Farm and forestry contractors applying under the scheme must be VAT registered, tax compliant and providing services linked to the primary production of agricultural products, including forestry.

One single payment will issue to successful applicants to cover the full five-month period rather than monthly payments.

While final payment calculations will depend on the overall number of applications received, it is anticipated that support will amount to approximately 20 cent per litre of eligible fuel usage over the period covered.

The scheme will remain open until Wednesday 27 May 2026, with payments expected to issue as soon as possible after the closing date.

Applicants wishing to contact the Department regarding the scheme can call the Direct Payments Helpline on 057-8674422 or email [email protected].