809. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the reason the disabled drivers and disabled passengers (tax concessions) regulations 1994 (Statutory Instrument No. 353 of 1994) and section 92 of the Finance Act 1989, operating as part of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme exclude blind passengers; when the regulations will be amended to include severe visual impairment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63216/26]

The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme (DDS), together with the Department of Transport’s developing Vehicle Adaptation Scheme (VAS), are intended as supports for persons with vehicle adaptation needs. Persons with severe visual impairments are unlikely to need vehicle adaptations in order for them to be transported safely within a vehicle. However, if they do have qualifying vehicle adaptation needs then they will be eligible to apply to the VAS for a reimbursement of their vehicle adaptation costs. In line with international best practice, the VAS will be based on needs rather than on medical criteria.

Broader Government commitments to transport solutions for those with a disability are essential and are distinct from meeting vehicle adaption needs.

As the Deputy will be aware, when this government took office, we committed to a step change in the delivery of supports and services for people with disability and their families.

Budget 2026 is the first step in delivering on this ambition, providing some €3.83 billion to specialist disability services next year, an unprecedented increase of €618 million, or almost 20%. This funding will be vital in delivering the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People.