Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 16 September 2016
1714. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the eligibility criteria for the disabled parking permit will be reviewed to allow persons without the use of their arms be included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25531/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Disabled Parking Permit (also known as European Parking Card or Disabled Parking Badge) is available to people living in Ireland with a permanent disability, medical condition, severe mobility difficulties and to people who are registered blind. The permit is available to people as drivers or passengers. The primary legislation for the purposes of the EU parking permit defines a disabled person as a person with a permanent condition or disability that severely restricts their ability to walk.
The disabled parking scheme is operated on behalf of my Department by the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI) and the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA), which are the two bodies empowered to issue disabled parking permits. As Minister, I have responsibility for the regulations under which the scheme operates.
My Department conducted a comprehensive review of the Disabled Parking Scheme in 2010. The review recommended revising the eligibility criteria for the disabled parking permit to focus on limitations on mobility rather than on diagnosis of particular medical condition or illness. This was in line with the original intention of the scheme.
I have no plans to review eligibility criteria at this time. However, should the key stakeholders, in particular the DDAI and/or the IWA, present a case for a further review of the scheme - or indeed specific aspects of it, I would be willing to give consideration to it.
