Jimmy Deenihan
Question:180 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Kerry is entitled to a taxi allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9242/03]
Written Answers - Services for People with Disabilities.
I draw the Deputy's attention to the mobility allowance which is a means-tested monthly payment payable by the health boards for persons with a severe disability. Applicants must be 16 years or older and under 66 years. The allowance provides financial support to eligible persons who are unable to walk or use public transport and is intended to enable them to benefit from a change in surroundings, for example, by financing the occasional taxi journey.
Eligible persons must reside at home or in any long-stay facility. Such eligible persons can continue to receive payment after they reach their 66th birthday. The maximum rate of payment for the mobility allowance is €132 per month.
The assessment of entitlement to and payment of the mobility allowance in any individual case is a matter for the relevant health board. My Department has therefore asked the chief executive officer of the Southern Health Board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him.