Disability Committee to discuss unequal access to personal transport for people with disabilities with Ombudsman Peter Tyndall

The meeting will be broadcast live from Committee Room 4 at 9:45am.

The report found that access to personal transports for people with disabilities are inadequate.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathoirleach Deputy Michael Moynihan said: “We look forward to discussing the Grounded report and its findings and recommendations with the Ombudsman.”

“The ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2017 provided a legal basis for people with disabilities to have the right to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life.”

“Lack of access to transport is one of the key barriers to stopping the realisation of these fundamental rights and can lead to the further economic, social, and personal isolation of people living with a disability.”

“The Ombudsman’s Office has received many complaints about three schemes in particular – the Mobility Allowance, the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme and the Motorised Transport Grant. Mr Tyndall has previously stated that when his Office has highlighted the inequity and unfairness of the schemes, the Government’s response has been unsatisfactory.”

“It is hoped that the Grounded report will result in action by policy makers in order to fulfil Ireland’s obligations set out by the UNCRPD and to provide adequate transport options for people living with a disability.”

Watch the Committee live here.

Read Grounded  - Unequal Access for People with Disabilities to Personal Transport Schemes here.