Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 September 2022
549. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health when the new transport support scheme providing supports for persons with disabilities will come into operation; the assistance that will be provided for those holders of primary medical certificates who do not have the finances available to purchase or adapt a suitable vehicle for their transport needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45857/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraWork is continuing on the policy proposals for the provision of transport supports for people with disabilities. Developments which will impact on the policy options include the following:
- The work of the Transport Working Group established under Action 104 of the National Disability Inclusion Strategy, under the remit of the Department of Children, Equality, Disabilities, Integration and Youth, which will inform the development of a co-ordinated plan for the enhancement of Government-funded transport and mobility supports available to people with disabilities. This will include a review of the Department of Finance's Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme;
- The ongoing progress by the Department of Transport in providing accessible public transport nationally and that Department's review of active travel and public transport policy, including accessible public transport; and
- The Cost of Disability Study, commissioned by the Department of Social Protection, which will inform policy direction in relation to the provision of adequate supports to meet the needs of people with disabilities, including transport costs.
