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Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 July 2014

Tuesday, 1 July 2014

Ceisteanna (115)

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

115. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the reason persons appealing a refusal under the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme have to travel to Dún Laoghaire; if he will review the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27855/14]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As the Deputy is aware, a Primary Medical Certificate is required to claim the tax reliefs provided under the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme.  The Senior Medical Officer for the relevant local Health Service Executive administrative area makes a professional clinical determination as to whether an individual applicant satisfies the medical criteria to receive a Primary Medical Certificate. An unsuccessful applicant can appeal the decision of the Senior Medical Officer to the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, which makes a new clinical determination in respect of the individual.

Hearings of the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal are held on average twice a month at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire, which has the facilities to cater for people with mobility impairing disabilities of the kind provided for under the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme.

The Medical Board of Appeal does hold regional clinics as demand arises. Regional clinics were held in June 2012 and August 2013 at the Mercy University Hospital in Cork City, and a further clinic will be held at Mercy University Hospital in October 2014. The Medical Board of Appeal is considering holding a clinic in the North-west next year if there is enough demand to justify the significant costs associated with the travel and locum expenses arising from holding a regional clinic.

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