Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 Oct 2002

Vol. 555 No. 5

Written Answers. - Services for People with Disabilities.

Michael Ring

Question:

278 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will amend the strict criteria for the mobility allowance, in particular the requirement that the applicant must be unable to walk even with the use of artificial limbs or other suitable aids; and if he will ease this criterion to give people a chance to qualify for the mobility allowance in cases of need. [18884/02]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O'Malley)

A national health board working group was established towards the end of 1999. One of the main objectives of this group was to examine all the various disability related allowances, which come under the remit of my Department, including mobility allowance. The group has recently submitted its recommendations to my Department and they are currently being examined.