Louis O'Hara (Galway East, Sinn Fein)
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32. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to provide an update on the development of a successor scheme to the disabled driver and passenger scheme; if there is a timeline for the introduction of this successor scheme; the engagement ha has had with advocacy groups regarding the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39833/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports I wish to advise that the Department of Transport is developing a new needs-based, cost reimbursement scheme to succeed the Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme. The Vehicle Adaptation Scheme (VAS) will provide needs-based support for vehicle adaptations, to improve the ability of those with a physical disability to travel via a personal means of transport.

My officials have just begun development of the scheme and while there has been some initial engagement with key stakeholders, over the coming months my Department intends to conduct extensive consultation with stakeholders, including advocacy groups, to develop the principles and parameters of the new scheme. In addition, a public consultation will be launched to seek the views of the public on the development and administration of the new scheme.

As primary legislation will be required to underpin the scheme, it is not possible to provide a definitive timeline for its introduction. However, at this point my Department is working towards a provisional commencement date of Q1 2027.