Bernard J. Durkan
Question:244 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the progress which has taken place or is planned in regard to a liberalisation of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers (tax concession) regulations 1994. [3755/03]
Written Answers. - Disabled Drivers.
An interdepartmental review group have looked at the disabled drivers' and disabled passengers' (tax concessions) scheme. I have received their report and it is currently being considered. Any recommendations contained in this report in relation to the medical criteria and other conditions of the scheme and whether to extend the scheme or otherwise will receive full consideration.
Any consideration will, among other factors, have to take account of any cost implications. 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 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.
The cost of reliefs, excluding annual road tax costs, is estimated to be in the region of €34 million in 2002, as compared to €5.1 million in 1994.