Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the representatives. I commend MABS on the crucial work it does in assisting individuals in particularly difficult times during the pandemic and as we deal with the cost-of-living crisis. Today, we are focusing on those with disabilities and the additional financial burdens that can be placed on individuals as a result of the discontinuation of a number of schemes. Most of us argue that the disabled drivers and passengers scheme is not fit for purpose and excludes many individuals. We know that six criteria apply to that scheme, where someone has to tick a box. It is really asking disabled people to fit into this little square box and if they do not they are grounded. In some cases, it means people cannot leave their homes to go to the shops or the cinema, or cannot visit a neighbour, because that is not possible for those living in a rural community.

Even if the criteria were changed to look at the issues, and to be more flexible in respect of mobility issues, what is the MABS view on how that would address the problem? I raise this because MABS representatives have previously raised the point that even if more people are eligible for the scheme, they still would have to be able to purchase a car. I am sure many of the individuals MABS deals with are not in that position. I would like to hear the representatives' views on that because while it would be absolutely fantastic if the criteria were changed and we had the medical appeals board up and running, there is a danger we are likely to still have a large number of people with disabilities excluded from mobility because those concerned cannot afford the €10,000, €20,000 or €30,000 to purchase a vehicle.

I was thinking as I came to today's meeting of the perverseness of this year in that people who have money are being given €5,000 of taxpayers' money. People who have disabilities and cannot leave their houses are paying taxes while that €5,000 is going to people who have money and can afford a €30,000 or €40,000 electric vehicle. Yet, €5,000 is not being made available to those people with a disability who are not looking for flashy new cars, but just want to be able to get out of the house to go to church or visit a neighbour or whatever. I would welcome the views of MABS on that.