Disabled Drivers

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 December 2011

Wednesday, 14 December 2011

Questions (261)

Jerry Buttimer

Question:

263 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Health in relation to persons who have restricted range of movement in one arm which makes driving severely difficult but who do not meet the criteria for a primary medical certificate, if there is any source of assistance available to facilitate them in acquiring an automatic car or adapting a manual vehicle in order that they can maintain their mobility and independence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40082/11]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Kathleen Lynch)

The Health ServiceExecutivemay pay a Motorised Transport Grant towards the purchase of a vehicle and/or adaptations to a vehicle being purchased by a person with a severe disability who is 17 years or older where a vehicle is essential for him/her to retain employment. Self-employed persons who satisfy the criteria of eligibility may also be considered.

Application is made to the local Health Service Executive office. In order to be eligible to receive the grant, a number of conditions must be satisfied. The key eligibility criteria are that the individual applying must

meet the medical criteria

require a car in order to retain employment

be means tested to determine the amount of grant payable.

Eligibility for the Motorised Transport Grant may also be considered in "Exceptional Circumstances" other than for employment retention, for a person with a severe disability who lives in very isolated circumstances and where their disability prevents them from using public transport.