Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2026
694. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality whether consideration is being given to the reopening or replacement of the motorised transport grant scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53675/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Motorised Transport Grant is a means-tested Health Service Executive (HSE) payment for people with disabilities who need to buy a car in order to retain employment. This payment is also for people with disabilities who need to have a car or other vehicle adapted in order to enable them to drive and, as a result, earn a living.
It operated as a means tested grant to assist persons with severe disabilities with the purchase or adaptation of a car, where that car was essential to retain employment.
The maximum grant, payable once to an individual in any three-year period, was €5,020.
The Government decided to close this scheme in 2013, on foot of the reports of the Ombudsman in 2011 and 2012 regarding the legal status of both Schemes in the context of the Equal Status Acts.
The National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030 is Ireland’s plan to advance the realisation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
It is a framework for collaborative whole-of-government action on disability policy, including transport and mobility (Pillar 5). Responses to the matters around personal mobility will be considered in the context of this work the priority actions identified therein.
