Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 May 2023
117. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the options available to a person (details supplied) who is unable to appeal a decision due to the absence of the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20658/23]
View answerThe Deputy should note that even though the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal (DDMBA) is not operational at the moment, assessments for a primary medical certificate (PMC), by the HSE, are continuing to take place. In this, regard, an important point to be aware of is that applicants who have been deemed not to have met one of the six eligibility criteria required for a PMC are entitled to request another PMC assessment six months after an unsuccessful PMC assessment. This therefore is an option for those who are currently unable to appeal to the DDMBA.
The reappointment of members to the DDMBA has proved to be a very challenging and slow process due to the small number of applications received. In order to fill the five positions there were three Expressions of Interest Campaigns in 2022 which the Department of Health led on. The process was completed in January 2023 with the completion of Garda vetting for the final two candidates.
However the process has been further complicated by the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) deciding in February 2023 to withdraw their services with immediate effect. Finance and Health officials are actively seeking to implement new arrangements, including engaging with the NRH. As there are a range of requirements and complex issues involved this may take some time.
In addition in March 2023, one nominated member of the DDMBA resigned for personal reasons. The Department of Health with support from Department of Finance officials launched another Expression of Interest Campaign on 3 April 2023 with a closing date of 28 April 2023.
