Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not have a specific date for the next meeting but I expect it will take place shortly.

My own view, and I have put this on record on a number of occasions, is that there is a need for a new scheme. That was the central conclusion of the report. I do not believe the existing criteria for the primary medical certificate, which is the gateway or access point to the disabled driver and disabled passenger scheme, are appropriate. It should be a needs-based assessment. An expenditure scheme is much more appropriate.

That said, we have the disabled driver and disabled passenger scheme at present, which we will continue to operate. For the record, in 2023, the cost of that scheme was €72.5 million plus an additional €10.6 million for the fuel grant. Therefore, well over €80 million was spent on the existing scheme in 2023. For those who can avail of the scheme, it is very valuable. However, there are many who cannot who deserve some support.

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