Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Dec 1990

Vol. 403 No. 5

Written Answers. - Disabled Drivers Tax Concessions.

Michael Noonan

Question:

78 Mr. Noonan (Limerick East) asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some disabled persons are having difficulty in arranging appointments with health board doctors whose function it is to examine applicants to decide whether primary medical certificates, in the form prescribed in the regulations, are warranted in accordance with sections 4 (b) and 6 of the Disabled Drivers Tax Concessions Regulations, 1989; if he will implement standard procedures in all health boards; if, in particular, he will authorise doctors to provide the necessary medical certificates and not merely submit reports and recommendations to superiors; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

I am not aware of any difficulty in arranging appointments for examinations under the Disabled Drivers Tax Concessions Regulations, 1989. If, however, the Deputy has any specific instances of difficulty or delay, I will have these investigated if he lets me have the details.

The primary medical certificate, referred to by the Deputy, is in fact a standard form which must be completed by the director of community care and medical officer of health.