Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2013
266. Deputy Shane Ross asked the Minister for Finance the reason the criteria for determining eligible cars under the disabled driver car purchase scheme is not based on CO2 emissions; his views on whether this is unfair to those persons who utilise the scheme and who wish to retain their particular model of car which is suitable to their particular disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16476/13]
View answerThe criteria relating to the engine size of a vehicle and the relief available for vehicles which qualify under the Disabled Drivers Passenger Scheme have been in place since 1989. The purpose of the scheme was to provide for ways in which people with a physical disability could become more mobile; it is felt that the present limit of 2000cc is sufficient to allow for an extensive choice of vehicle in that regard.
Given the scale and scope of the scheme, any possible changes can only be made after careful consideration and with regard to the existing and prospective cost of the scheme and the available resources.
