Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2024
245. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance if a response will issue to matters raised in correspondence regarding inequality in awarding the primary medical certificate (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21776/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the outset, the Deputy should note that my Department and I share concerns that the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme (DDS) is no longer fit-for-purpose.
Consequently, my Department had a significant input into the final report of the National Disability & Inclusion Strategy (NDIS) Transport Working Group's review of mobility and transport supports including the DDS, which endorsed proposals for a modern, fit-for-purpose vehicle adaptation scheme in line with international best practice that would replace the DDS.
The Working Group was chaired by Minister Anne Rabbitte and led by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY).
Access to transport for people with disabilities is a multifaceted issue that involves work carried out by multiple Government departments and agencies. Under the aegis of the Department of Taoiseach a Senior Officials Group (SOG) from relevant Departments and agencies are meeting to discuss the issues arising from the NDIS report and to map a way forward.
My officials are participating in the work of this SOG as an important step in considering ways to replace the DDS. It should be noted that the DDS represents just one specific personal transport response, in the context of broader Government consideration of holistic, multifaceted and integrated transport and mobility supports for those with a disability. Four meetings of the group have been held, in July, November, December 2023; and March 2024.
My Department submitted a note to the group in mid-January 2024. This note outlines a proposal for a replacement scheme for the DDS which would be a needs-based, grant-led approach for necessary vehicle adaptations that could serve to improve the functional mobility of the individual. This proposal is in line with what the NDIS Working Group Report endorsed. Further consideration is being given to the principles and parameters for a new scheme in line with best international practice.
In that context, any further changes to the existing DDS would run counter to NDIS proposals to entirely replace the scheme with a modern, fit-for-purpose vehicular adaptation scheme.
It also important to note that I have no role in relation to the granting or refusal of PMCs and the HSE and the Medical Board of Appeal must be independent in their clinical determinations.
