Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 184: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if there is flexibility in the medical criteria for a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon to receive a primary medical certificate under the Disabled Drivers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994; and if not his views on expanding the criteria that are used to determine eligibility. [11621/08]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The initial application for a Primary Medical Certificate under the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994, is made to the Senior Medical Officer of the relevant local Health Service Executive administrative area.

If the Primary Medical Certificate has been refused in this case, the named person may appeal the refusal to the Medical Board of Appeal, National Rehabilitation Hospital, Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. I would point out that the Medical Board of Appeal is independent in the exercise of its functions.

As the Deputy will be aware there was an interdepartmental review of the scheme. Some 12,500 people benefited under the scheme in 2007 at an overall estimated cost of €74 million. Any changes to the scheme would have to be considered in the context of the annual Budget.