For the purposes of the Restart Grant and Restart Grant Plus Schemes, including subsequent top-ups, each Local Authority is the decision maker in relation to all applications and appeals. My Department has no role in relation to individual applications other than advisory in relation to Scheme criteria.
In that regard, where clarification of the eligibility criteria has been necessary, the Local Authorities have engaged proactively with my Department to determine how best to proceed. Businesses also had the option to make an appeal in writing to the Local Authority where they felt they have been unfairly treated or are in compliance with the criteria, whose decision is final.