James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have outlined the background, the work being undertaken and the current position in replacing the mobility allowance and reiterate my point on the challenge of developing a new individual cash payment scheme on a statutory basis with a limited budget while continuing to cater for the 4,700 people already in receipt of a monthly payment with aim of supporting people with severe disabilities who acquire additional income and satisfying all legal and equality concerns. That work continues in order that they will not be disadvantaged.

I must point out to the Deputy that this was a legal issue before the Government came to power. The Government the Deputy supported presided over it. There was also a lack of action on the issue of symphysiotomy, for those excluded from the Neary redress scheme and in the case of the Magdalen laundries and many other things. Like all Deputies, I have grave concerns regarding all those who suffer from a disability and have issues with transport. The Government is working hard to address yet another issue left behind by the Government supported by the Deputy and which wrecked the country.

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