Departmental Schemes

Tuesday, 7 July 2026

Questions (226)

Mairéad Farrell

Question:

226. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Transport regarding the VAS scheme which is set to replace the DD1 disabled drivers scheme, if he will provide assurance that the financial assistance in purchasing a vehicle for persons or carers of persons with a disability will not be taken away and that the right to personal mobility, including the need to own a modified vehicle, will not be impeded; if there will be financial aid to newcomers onto the vehicle adaptation scheme, in the purchase of a vehicle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51748/26]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

I can confirm that the Vehicle Adaptation Scheme (VAS) will not provide support for vehicle purchase. The purpose of the VAS is to improve functional mobility by assisting with the cost of vehicle adaptations. The Scheme will be open to drivers and passengers who have a need for vehicle adaptations to enable them to enter, exit or operate a vehicle. The Department’s priority is to provide supports, for both disabled drivers and passengers, which are fit for purpose and which are proportionate and appropriate to needs.

Further, I wish to advise that the VAS is a standalone scheme and is not intended to replace the Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme (DDS). Responsibility for the future of the DDS remains a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Finance.