Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

My mood and tone are a mild reflection of the disillusionment and anger felt by those affected by the inaction of the Government on this scheme. I urge the Minister to stand over the repeated promises and guarantees made on this matter and to be cognisant of the importance of the scheme for those who simply cannot avail of public transport. I am asking him to give a categoric guarantee that a replacement scheme will be put in place without further delay and provide a timeline. This issue has been dragging on for approximately 18 months. The commitments have been given but not honoured and I am told today that the matter will again be kicked to touch. I, therefore, ask the Minister to give us a timeline for the introduction of the new scheme.

The form of the new scheme is also very important. Any new scheme must be in the form of a personal payment to the individual. A group transport scheme will not be sufficient to meet the variety of needs of those who previously received grants. I ask the Minister to consider the fact that, with each day that passes, unfortunately, more and more people are left challenged by reduced mobility as a result of accident or by birth. It is unacceptable that we are leaving them with no supports during a very difficult period in their lives.

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