Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 September 2014
196. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health if plans to introduce the new statutory travel payment scheme to replace the motorised transport grant and other transport supports for persons with disabilities are now at an advanced stage; and when the new scheme will be in place. [36221/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraConscious of the reports of the Ombudsman regarding the legal status of the Motorised Transport Grant and Mobility Allowance schemes, in the context of the Equal Status Acts, the Government decided to close both schemes on 26th February, 2013.
On 26th November 2013, the Government decided that the preparatory work required for a new travel subsidy scheme and associated statutory provisions should be progressed by the Minister for Health.
Work is ongoing on the policy proposals to be brought to Government for the drafting of primary legislation for a new scheme. Once approved by Government, the time frame for the introduction of a new scheme will become clearer.
