Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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189. To ask the Minister for Finance when the criteria for accessing a primary medical certificate will be updated; if he will accept that the current approach is not fit for purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29309/24]

Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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213. To ask the Minister for Finance what changes are being considered under the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme to ensure that the scheme is replaced with a needs-based, grant-led approach; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29713/24]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 189 and 213 together.

The Deputies should note that my Department and I share concerns that the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme (DDS) is no longer fit-for-purpose and believe it should be replaced with a needs-based, grant-led approach for necessary vehicle adaptations that could serve to improve the functional mobility of the individual.

However, this is very much a matter for Government as whilst my Department has oversight of the DDS, I do not have responsibility for disability policy.

As the Deputies are aware the National Disability & Inclusion Strategy (NDIS) Transport Working Group recommended that the DDS be replaced with a modern, fit-for-purpose vehicular adaptation scheme. This is in line with the general view that we need to move away from a medical criteria-based approach to a needs-based approach.

Under the aegis of the Department of Taoiseach officials from relevant Departments and agencies are meeting to discuss the issues arising from the NDIS report including how the DDS can be replaced.

The Department of Finance submitted a note to the group with my predecessor's approval in mid-January 2024. This note outlines a proposal for a replacement scheme for the DDS which would be a needs-based, grant-led approach for necessary vehicle adaptations. Further consideration is being given to this matter through the establishment of sub-group of the Department of Taoiseach working group. This sub-group will start its work shortly and is expected to report in the Autumn.