Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 April 2019
116. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Finance if he will clarify the recent response given regarding the number of appeals under the disabled drivers and passengers scheme in view of previous figures which were supplied (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15070/19]
View answerIn order to access the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme a person must obtain a Primary Medical Certificate (PMC) from the HSE. A PMC is obtained if, following a professional clinical examination by the HSE, it is determined that the applicant satisfies at least one of the medical criteria necessary to qualify for a PMC.
If an applicant is unsuccessful in obtaining a PMC from the HSE they may appeal the decision to the independent Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal.
An applicant that has obtained a PMC may make a claim to the Revenue Commissioners for repayment of VAT and Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) on the purchase of a vehicle. If such a claim is unsuccessful they may appeal the decision of the Revenue.
The information provided by me to the Deputy in my reply to Question 6131/19 related to persons that were already in possession of a PMC and as such qualified for the Scheme. The appeals referenced in my reply related to the refusal of claims by Revenue for repayment of VAT and VRT on the purchase of a vehicle.
The information provided in my reply to Questions 5738/18 and 5875/18 referred to by the Deputy related to cases referred to the independent Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, where a PMC was refused following a professional clinical determination by the HSE.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
