Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 January 2025
1229. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the supports available to individuals in receipt of an invalidity pension who require wheelchair-modified vehicles for personal use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1289/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI thank the Deputy for this question and I understand that my colleague, the Minister for Finance, will provide an answer on the first part of this question relating to the supports available to individuals who require wheelchair-modified vehicles for personal use, under the Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme that is operated by his department.
In relation to the second part of the question, government recognises the importance of accessible transport options, so that disabled people are supported to participate in their communities and so that they have access to opportunities for employment and leisure activities on an equal basis with others. Work is currently ongoing on the development of a new National Disability Strategy, with publication expected in 2025 which features transport and personal mobility as important and fundamental considerations.
Specific issues relating to the invalidity pension and its associated entitlements, including supports for vehicle adaptations, lie outside of my Department’s remit and fall instead under the remit of the Department of Social Protection.
