Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein)
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563. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the successor scheme to the disabled driver and passenger scheme will be introduced; to report on engagement with stakeholders on the successor scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43315/25]

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 grant-based 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 the 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.