Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank both doctors for their presentation. I apologise for being a little late. I was at another meeting so I missed some of the earlier presentations. Some of the questions I wished to ask have already been asked.

The criteria are very strict. Both guests referred to them in their presentations. Let me give a small example. Only last week I raised with the Department of Finance in a Commencement debate the replacement of the board and the filling of the positions. I have constituents who have been waiting from mid-term last year for their appeals to be heard. One constituent was in an accident and has plates in an arm, meaning their arms are not quite as flexible as those of the rest of us. The person was turned down and is waiting for the appeal. Should there be some sort of in-between board dealing with primary certificates for those who end up in a position like the one I have described? The individual’s movement is quite impeded. An electronic car or a car that would not require much arm use would certainly be suitable, but I am not sure the individual will qualify after an appeal once the new board is put in place. I understand that the possibility of an appeal is being assessed.

One of the delegates said there should be broader criteria. Could they elaborate on their thinking in that regard? I agree that the criteria are too strict for some to qualify, yet they are not able to drive a normal car with a gearstick or otherwise and are in need of the primary certificate.