I refer the Deputy to the most recent Adjournment debate in this House on the subject of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme, which took place on 22 March 2000.
A comprehensive review of the workings of the scheme was carried out in 1993 and resulted in the adoption of the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations, 1994. Six different types of disability are listed under the regulations and a qualifying person must satisfy one or more of them. Essentially, those without the use of limbs, as distinct from those who are just weak in the limbs, will qualify. These regulations were drawn up following wide-ranging consultation with the Departments of Health and Children, the Environment and Local Government and Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, the Revenue Commissioners, Opposition spokespersons for Finance and organisations dealing with the disabled.
The scheme is currently under review by an interdepartmental group which is chaired by an official from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. In addition to representatives from that Department, the group has representatives from the Department of Finance, the Department of Health and Children and the Revenue Commissioners.