Parking Provision

Tuesday, 28 July 2026

Questions (370)

Barry Heneghan

Question:

370. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport the eligibility criteria for the disabled parking permit scheme; whether the scheme provides for applications from persons with severe non-visible disabilities, including autism, intellectual disabilities and other conditions that may give rise to significant safety risks in public spaces despite the person being physically mobile; whether his Department has undertaken, or intends to undertake, a review of the eligibility criteria to assess whether they adequately reflect the needs of persons with severe non-visible disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55197/26]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

As Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, I wish to advise that the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997, as amended, set out the statutory foundations for the Disabled Parking Scheme.

Disabled parking permits are available to an individual with permanent conditions or disabilities that severely restrict their ability to walk. Eligibility is therefore defined on the basis of mobility impairment rather than a specific medical condition. An individual who is certified as blind may also qualify for a permit.

My Department is currently undertaking a review of the Disabled Parking Scheme, including the eligibility criteria.