Timmy Dooley
Ceist:467. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health when a motorised transport grant or an alternative to same will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13986/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraDáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 April 2015
467. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health when a motorised transport grant or an alternative to same will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13986/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraConscious of the reports of the Ombudsman regarding the legal status of the Motorised Transport Grant and Mobility Allowance Scheme, in the context of the Equal Status Acts, the Government decided to close both schemes. The Government is aware of the needs of people with a disability who rely on individual payments which support choice and independence. Work is ongoing on the policy proposals to be brought to Government for the drafting of primary legislation for a new travel subsidy scheme. Once policy proposals have been finalised and approved by Government, the time frame for the introduction of a new scheme will become clearer. The Health (Transport Supports) Bill is included in the Government's legislative programme for 2015.