asked the Minister for Health the assistance that is available to physically handicapped people to help them purchase and maintain their own cars; if he is satisfied that disabled drivers are being assisted in every possible way; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transport for Physically Handicapped.
7.
A scheme of grants towards the cost of motorised transport or of adaptations to motorised transport for disabled persons is administered by health boards.
The chief indicators for the provision of this service are: (a) that the car is essential to earn a living; (b) that the disability impedes the applicant in the use of public transport; (c) that the applicant holds a full driving licence; (d) that the application is justified on means grounds; and (e) that the applicant is physically and mentally capable of driving.
It is accepted that some severely handicapped persons, themselves incapable of driving, must be driven to and from work. In such cases, grants may be given towards the purchase of a car in the name of the disabled person on the understanding that he will be driven to and from his place of employment by someone else.
Grants have also been approved for disabled drivers living in very isolated circumstances with serious transport problems, even though the question of employment does not arise.
The maximum grant payable at present is £500.