Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
421. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Finance for an update on the review of the regulations underpinning the primary medical certificate scheme arising from the Supreme Court challenge to the conflict between the regulations and primary legislation; what changes he intends to make to the rules governing the scheme; and when these changes will be made. [37192/23]
View answerThe Disabled Drivers & Disabled Passengers Scheme (DDS) provides relief from VRT and VAT on the use of an adapted car, as well as an exemption from motor tax and an annual fuel grant.
The Scheme is open to severely and permanently disabled persons who also meet one of six specified medical criteria, as a driver or as a passenger and also to certain organisations. In order to qualify for relief, the applicant must hold a Primary Medical Certificate issued by the relevant Senior Area Medical Officer (SAMO) or a Board Medical Certificate issued by the Disabled Driver Medical Board of Appeal. Certain other qualifying criteria apply in relation to the vehicle, in particular that it must be specially constructed or adapted for use by the applicant.
The current medical criteria were included in the Finance Act 2020, by way of amendment to Section 92 of the Finance Act 1989. This amendment arises from legal advice in light of the June 2020 Supreme Court judgement.
The National Disability Inclusion Strategy Transport Working Group (TWG), comprising members from a range of Departments, agencies and Disabled Persons Organisations, was tasked under Action 104 to review all Government-funded transport and mobility supports for those with a disability, including the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme (DDS).
The NDIS Transport Working Group's final report published in February 2023, endorsed proposals for a modern vehicle adaptation scheme in line with international best practice that would replace the DDS, as it was no longer fit-for-purpose on any and all aspects.
As the Deputy will appreciate, access to transport for people with disabilities is a multifaceted issue that involves work carried out by multiple Government departments and agencies. Officials from relevant Departments and agencies are meeting to discuss the issues arising from this report and to map a way forward. My officials are proactively engaging with this work as an important step in considering ways to replace the DDS.
Finally, the Deputy should note that the Government is committed to providing services for people with disabilities which will empower them to live their lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives.
