Commission approves EUR 15 million Irish aid scheme to offset fuel costs for fisheries and aquaculture sector

The scheme aims to compensate fishing and aquaculture companies for additional fuel costs incurred between March and July 2026 as a result of the Middle East crisis. Aid will be provided through direct grants, including a EUR 350 flat-rate payment for smaller vessels and fuel-cost-based support for larger vessels (up to a maximum of EUR 0.40 per litre of fuel), with the scheme running until 31 December 2026.

The Commission approved the scheme under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF), concluding that it is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to support economic activity in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

For more information, see the Commission’s PR.