Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before I respond on the amendments, I wish to advise that a Clerk's correction will be required in regard to an error on page 53, line 4, of the Bill. The reference to "No. 2" on line 4 is incorrect and needs to be deleted. This has been checked and clarified by the Bills Office.

I propose to take amendments Nos. 60 and 61 together.

To respond directly to the Chairman of the finance committee, I spoke to Deputy Michael McGrath, who put forward the amendment on Committee Stage, and clarified this matter with him, as did the Minister, Deputy Donohoe.

These amendments concern access to the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme, which plays an important role in increasing the mobility of citizens with severe physical disabilities. The scheme is a significant tax expenditure, costing €65 million in taxes foregone and grant payments in 2016. This does not include the revenue foregone to the local government fund in respect of the relief from motor tax provided to members of the scheme.

In accordance with SI 353 of 1994, registered charitable organisations are eligible to become members of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme where they are chiefly engaged in the care and transport of disabled persons who have obtained a primary medical certificate. The effect of the amendment, by removing the word “chiefly”, would be to significantly broaden access to the scheme for charitable organisations. The amendment could open up the scheme to organisations which are not primarily involved in the care and transport of persons with disabilities. As such, it would result in a poorly targeted scheme and a large additional liability to the Exchequer.

Following discussion on Committee Stage, officials have brought forward proposed amendments to the regulations governing the scheme to address the issue raised by Deputy McGrath. If the Deputy will withdraw the amendments, I will make the necessary changes to the scheme through the regulations.

I too was spoken to by the group in my local area, St. Aidan's in Gorey, which is also buying a bus. I was aware of this issue prior to it coming up in Finance Bill. While it was being progressed in any case, I am glad we had the opportunity to speak in a constructive way with Deputy McGrath. I am satisfied the matter will be concluded to the satisfaction of all those agencies involved.

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