Motorised transport scheme replacement
Deputy Robert Troy asked when a new motorised transport scheme for people with severe disabilities would be introduced after the old one was suspended. The Taoiseach said new primary legislation and funding were required and both were being prepared for a scheme next year.
Last week I asked about a second runway and although the Taoiseach was to come back to me, he never did. Perhaps he might do that.
Today I am asking about the motorised transport scheme. It was suspended in February 2013 because the Ombudsman said that the Department was acting unduly. At that time we were advised that a new scheme would be introduced within six months, which are now long gone. Over the past 12 months, the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, has stated several times that the new scheme was imminent. The scheme is aimed at people with severe disabilities who cannot walk. When the Taoiseach talks about equal opportunities for all, I suggest that people with a disability deserve an equal opportunity. When will the replacement scheme come into force? Four and a half years later, I think there would be grounds for a legal challenge unless the Government reintroduces the scheme without much more delay.
Comment on this
The scheme still exists but has been closed to new entrants for a number of years. For a new scheme to be put in place requires new primary legislation and financial provision. The legislation is being drafted by the Department of Health. Financial provision for it will form part of the discussions for the Estimates this year. Both elements are required to allow us to bring a new scheme into place for next year.