Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 302: To ask the Minister for Health the current criteria for eligibility for the motorised transport grant in respect of a person with a severe disability who is not in employment; his plans to review these criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40280/11]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Motorised Transport Grant supports people with a severe disability to purchase/adapt a car where it is essential for him or her to retain employment. The eligibility criteria are governed by a circular issued by my Department. In order to be eligible to receive the grant, a number of conditions must be satisfied. The key eligibility criteria are that the individual applying must

· meet the medical criteria

· require a car in order to retain employment

· be means tested to determine the amount of grant payable.

Self-employed persons who satisfy the criteria of eligibility may also be considered.

Eligibility for the Motorised Transport Grant may also be considered in "Exceptional Circumstances" other than for employment retention, for a person with a severe disability who lives in very isolated circumstances and where their disability prevents them from using public transport. It is not proposed to change the current circular.