Richard Bruton
Question:75 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he has received recommendations for amendments to the disabled drivers concessions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14484/02]
Written Answers. - Disabled Drivers.
I assume the Deputy is referring to the recommendations arising from the review by an interdepartmental group chaired by an official from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme. Officials from the Revenue Commissioners, the Departments of Health and Children and Social and Family Affairs, and my Department are also represented on the group. The group is examining all aspects of the scheme. The Deputy will appreciate that the work of this review group is very complex. As part of its deliberations, the group has heard oral submissions over a period of five and a half days and has received over 260 written submissions from interested parties. I have not yet received the report of the group but I understand that it will be finalised in the near future.
I have been informed there are up to 360,000 persons in Ireland who could be regarded as disabled to some degree or other. These include both persons with medical conditions other than those which are covered by the scheme, and those with medical conditions covered by the scheme. The substantial tax benefits of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme make for considerable interest in and desire to be admitted to the scheme. At present there are approximately 7,500 beneficiaries under the scheme. Beneficiaries, once qualified, are eligible for life.
The cost of reliefs, excluding the annual road tax costs, was approximately €30.5 million in 2001 as compared to €5.1 million in 1994. The cost of the scheme in 2002, again excluding annual road tax costs, is estimated to be in the region of €38 million.
Many factors have to be taken into account by the review group and many interests balanced. As I have said in the past, I appreciate the difficulties which people who suffer from some form of physical disability face in coping with everyday life. Any proposals, whether to widen the scope of the scheme or otherwise, which may emanate from the review group will receive full consideration. It would be inappropriate of me to make any further comments pending such consideration.