Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 200: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 will be assisted. [34995/07]

Jimmy Devins (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Deputy should be aware that the Primary Medical Certificate is a requirement of the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme which the Department of Finance has statutory responsibility for. I would like to bring the Deputy's attention to two schemes administered by the Health Service Executive (HSE): the Motorised Transport Grant and the Mobility Allowance.

The HSE may pay a Motorised Transport Grant towards the purchase of a vehicle and/or adaptations to a vehicle being purchased by a person with a severe disability who is 17 years or older and under 66 years of age, where a vehicle is essential for him or her to retain employment. From 1st January 2008 the maximum personal rate is €5,020.50.

A Mobility Allowance is payable by the HSE, subject to a means test, to persons with a severe disability. Applicants must be 16 years or older and under 66 years. The allowance provides financial support to eligible people who are unable to walk or use public transport and is intended to enable them to benefit from a change in surroundings — for example, by financing the occasional taxi journey. From 1st January 2008 the maximum rate of Mobility Allowance is €202 per month. For both schemes applicants should apply to their local HSE office.