Vol. 493 No. 3
283 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Health and Children the qualifying criteria in respect of the motorised transport grant; if he has satisfied himself that the criteria are being applied consistently by each of the regional health boards who have operational responsibility for the administration of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15845/98]
284 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures, if any, which are in place to publicise the availability of motorised transport grants; the means test attached thereon to qualified persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15846/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 283 and 284 together.
The underlying purpose of the motorised transport grant scheme is to provide assistance to people with disabilities who need a car in order to gain or retain employment. However, health boards may also give sympathetic consideration to applications from people with a disability who are living in a very isolated area. Payment of the grant is subject to a means test, which is based on the average weekly industrial earnings. The rate of grant payable is linked to the level of income. Responsibility for publicising the motorised transport grant rests with the individual health boards. I am unaware of any major inconsistencies in the operation of the motorised transport grant scheme. If the Deputy has information in this regard, I will be pleased to investigate the matter further for him.
