Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2026
129. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied that the current measures in place to address the price spikes that have occurred following the US and Israeli invasion of Iran; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31151/26]
View answerDeputy,
My Department is currently finalising the operation of the Road Transport Support Scheme (RTSS). The scheme was brought to Cabinet on Tuesday, 28th April and details of the scheme were announced at a press conference on Wednesday, 29th April. Details of how to apply for the scheme will be made available as soon as possible
The Road Transport Support Scheme (RTSS) plans will provide support for licensed hauliers, own account operators, and public transport providers, subject to certain criteria.
Since the beginning of this fuel crisis, both myself and the Minister of State have engaged with representative bodies from the road haulage industry. The supports announced since 24 March reflect the input from those bodies.
This Government recognises the essential role the supply chain and logistics sector plays in Ireland’s economy, and its national strategic importance bringing essential supplies into and around the State, supporting key infrastructure and enabling the maintenance of all economic and social activity in our country.
This Government also acknowledges that rising fuel costs born out of the conflict in Iran represent a threat, not just to the transport sector, but to our whole economy. Higher prices for hauliers lead to secondary price rises for everyone across the supply chain. That’s why this Government is committed to engaging with industry representatives and implementing measures aimed at addressing rising fuel costs facing the sector.
Support will be provided for licenced hauliers, own account operators, and public transport providers. Payments will be made for March, with additional payments for April and May if average diesel prices remain above €1.90 per litre.
The Road Transport Support Scheme (RTSS) is modelled largely on the Licensed Haulier Support Scheme (LHSS) and the Licensed Haulier Emergency Support Scheme (LHESS). However, it will go further than the previous schemes and will be open to both licenced road haulage operators and the own account sector, as well as licensed road passenger operators, subject to certain criteria. This Government is confident that the support packages in place will minimise the impact of the fuel increases for the sector.
As Minister for Transport , alongside officials from my Department will continue to engage with representative bodies through the established channels of the Road Freight Forum (RFF) and the Logistics and Supply Chain Skills Group (LSCSG). The Scheme reflects both the immediate need for financial support and the ongoing commitment of Government to work with the sector to maintain Ireland’s essential trade and strategic supply chains.
