Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
404. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to provide an update on the reform of the disabled driver's and disabled passengers (tax concessions) scheme including a timeline on when a new scheme will be put in place. [30313/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra405. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will review the primary medical certificate scheme, and the impact it has on children with lifelong neurological conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30343/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 404 and 405 together.
The Deputy should note that my Department and I share concerns that the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme or DDS is no longer fit-for-purpose.
Under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach, the sub-group convened to progress the National Disability Inclusion Strategy proposals for a needs-based, grant-aided, modern vehicle adaptation supports to replace the DDS, generated a report that was submitted to the Department of the Taoiseach. In considering this report, it has been proposed that a new grant-based scheme be developed and led by the Department of Transport.
The Department of Transport is beginning the development of this new scheme. The existing DDS remains with the Department of Finance and will continue to be reviewed in the context of new scheme developments by the Department of Transport.
As the Deputy will be aware, when this government took office, we committed to a step change in the delivery of supports and services for people with disability and their families.
Budget 2026 is the first step in delivering on this ambition, providing some €3.83 billion to specialist disability services next year, an unprecedented increase of €618 million, or almost 20%.
This funding will be vital in delivering the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People. The commitment to develop a new scheme by the Department of Transport, and in this context review the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme, are strong commitments in this strategy.
