Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 1

Written Answers. - Disabled Drivers Scheme.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

100 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if the special driving needs of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be met by way of grant or other means such as the elimination of VAT or excise duties to compensate for a specially adapted car; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23764/99]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Relief from tax in respect of the purchase of a vehicle for the transport of a disabled person is provided for under the disabled drivers and disabled passengers (tax concessions) scheme. These regulations set out the terms and conditions of the relief and specify the medical criteria which must be met by the disabled person.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners, who are responsible for the administration of the scheme, that they have no record of receipt of an application from the person referred to by the Deputy. In the absence of information as to the circumstances of the person named it is not possible to comment on whether he or she would be admitted to the scheme.

I would suggest that the person named contacts the central repayments office, Coolshannagh, Monaghan, telephone [phone], who will give information and assistance as required. I have also arranged for the appropriate information leaflets to be issued directly to the person.

In addition to this tax relief scheme, the health boards are responsible for operating a motorised transport grant scheme and a mobility allowance scheme.