Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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401. To ask the Minister for Finance to ensure that scoliosis spinal fusion will be deemed as a qualifying need under the new NDIS criteria which will replace the current disabled drivers scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29520/25]

Ann Graves (Dublin Fingal East, Sinn Fein)
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412. To ask the Minister for Finance if she will consider amending the criteria by which persons are assessed for the disabled drivers and disabled passengers (tax concessions) scheme 1994; if she will amend to include autism and ADHD as currently the Disabled Drivers Medical Board can only assess for physical disability. [30312/25]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 401 and 412 together.

The Deputy should note that my Department and I share concerns that the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme or 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 my Department has oversight of the DDS only and does not have responsibility for disability policy.

Under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach, the sub-group convened to progress the National Disability Inclusion Strategy proposals for a needs-based, grant-aided, modern vehicle adaptation supports to replace the DDS, generated a report that was submitted to the Department of the Taoiseach. In considering this report, it has been proposed that a new grant-based scheme be developed and led by the Department of Transport.

The Department of Transport is beginning the development of this new scheme. The existing DDS remains with the Department of Finance and will continue to be reviewed in the context of new scheme developments by the Department of Transport.