David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 225: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of people who received tax relief under the disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme in 2007; the number of people who are eligible to qualify for relief under this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3851/08]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme provides relief from Vehicle Registration Tax, VAT and excise duty on fuel (up to certain limits), and exemption from motor tax, on the purchase and use of an adapted car for transport of a person with specific severe and permanent physical disabilities.

Based on the most recent data available from the Revenue Commissioners it is estimated that the total number of people in/claimants under the scheme during 2007 was around 12,500, of whom some 5,900 people obtained VRT and VAT relief during 2007 on the purchase of a vehicle. It is estimated that the overall cost of the scheme in 2007 amounted to €74 million.

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 226: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of people who appealed a decision to refuse them tax relief in 2007 under the disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme; the number who were successful in their appeal in 2007; the average waiting time for an appeal under this scheme to be heard by the Medical Board of Appeal; the location where appeals are heard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3852/08]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I understand from the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, which is independent in the exercise of its functions, that 420 appeals were received during 2007 by the Medical Board of Appeal against decisions by Senior Medical Officers of the Health Service Executive to refuse Primary Medical Certificates.

The Medical Board of Appeal contacted some 460 people regarding offers of appointments in 2007, of whom 313 were assessed by the Board, the remainder declined the appointment or did not turn up for the appointment. Fifty Seven of the people assessed by the Medical Board of Appeal were successful in their appeal. The average waiting time for appeals in 2007 was 6 months, however, the waiting time is being continually reduced.

Appeals are normally heard in the National Rehabilitation Hospital, Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. The Board has in the past held regional sessions in Cork and Donegal when sufficient appellants were available from the regions.