Mary Moran (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to contribute. I thank Senator Moloney for raising this issue. I seconded her request on the morning in question. Regardless of whether a Minister is present, I am delighted that this debate is being held. It is important that our voices be heard and transcribed.

I echo the sentiments that have been expressed. The bottom line is that everyone is concerned by the sudden announcement about the removal of the mobility allowance in three months' time. We must ensure that something is in place before the allowance is pulled. I have received several communications from constituents who are not affected by the mobility allowance and are confused by what is happening. Others are petrified for their mental and physical health. They are genuinely concerned that if the allowance is withdrawn, they will become prisoners in their own homes. Senators Moloney and Kelly referred to rural Ireland.

This will pose a problem in rural parts of my constituency. It will also pose a problem in urban areas. I have spoken to representatives from the Irish Wheelchair Association about the proposals. A problem arises where a person takes ill suddenly and requires transport to a hospital, because in such a situation advance transport cannot be booked. We need to know exactly what will be put in place. It is envisaged that a person will have to book a van in advance, but people cannot always know what will happen to them two or three weeks in advance. I recently spoke to an American person who told me that while this system is in place in America, one of its biggest problems is trying to provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles quickly.

I welcome the working group. It is vital that it includes people with disabilities, who can be the voice of those directly affected. I agree with Senator Burke on the need for consultation. It is important that we have an opportunity to debate the findings of the working group in the House. Also, it is important, if this service is introduced, that sick people being taken to hospital do not have to travel with people who are well and being taken elsewhere, as they could end up being in a vehicle for a couple of hours, which would not do them any good.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh spoke about the rights of the disabled and what constitutes a disability. Perhaps the working group could examine this issue and, following publication of its report, we, along with the Minister, could also examine the definition. Mention was made of people over 66. Senator van Turnhout asked how many of those people were likely to apply for this service. If, as suggested by the Ombudsman, this service will be open to any person with a disability, be it mental or physical, then we need clarification on what constitutes a disability.