431. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the outcome of the review of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme; the rationale for each of the major changes being proposed; if the current scheme will remain in place until the new scheme is agreed by all stakeholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65868/26]

My Department and I share concerns that the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme or DDS is no longer fit-for-purpose. The Government has now agreed to commence from early 2027 the Department of Transport’s Vehicle Adaptation Scheme (VAS). The VAS will provide direct financial assistance to all individuals with qualifying vehicle adaptation needs to meet the costs of those adaptations. The VAS will improve individuals’ functional mobility that in turn can contribute to better social and economic opportunities.

The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme (DDS) remains with the Department of Finance and will be kept under review. Learning from the commencement and initial operation of the VAS will further inform reform options for the DDS.

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. The commitment to develop a new scheme by the Department of Transport, and in this context review the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme, are strong commitments in this strategy.