Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021
89. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport his plans to increase the wheelchair accessibility of the taxi fleet; the impact this has on taxi drivers that purchase a non-wheelchair accessible taxi now; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27470/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government contains commitments to support the greening of the SPSV fleet and to enhance accessibility for people with disabilities. To this end my Department funds two vehicle purchase schemes administered by the National Transport Authority; the eSPSV Grant Scheme to support the purchase of electric vehicles, and the WAV Grant Scheme to support the purchase of wheelchair-accessible vehicles. A vehicle which is both fully electric and wheelchair accessible can avail of grant support from both schemes to a combined maximum of €32,500 per vehicle. This substantial level of support recognises both the higher costs of such vehicles and their necessity in meeting the needs of passengers who require wheelchair accessible vehicles
SPSV operators are encouraged to consider the grant assistance available when making a vehicle purchase. The schemes aim to incentivise drivers to choose vehicles which are fully electric, wheelchair-accessible, or both. There is no grant assistance available to drivers planning to purchase a non-wheelchair accessible internal combustion powered SPSVs.
