Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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133. To ask the Minister for Finance when the terms and conditions of the primary medical certificate scheme will be amended to include single arm amputees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26888/24]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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134. To ask the Minister for Finance if the criteria for the primary medical certificate scheme can be amended to include people with MS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26889/24]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 134 together.

The Deputy should note that my Department and I share concerns that the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme (DDS) is no longer fit-for-purpose and believe it should be replaced with a needs-based, grant-led approach for necessary vehicle adaptations that could serve to improve the functional mobility of the individual.

However, this is very much a matter for Government as whilst my Department has oversight of the DDS, I do not have responsibility for disability policy.

It is also important to be aware that any further changes to the existing DDS would run counter to the National Disability & Inclusion Strategy (NDIS) proposals to entirely replace the scheme with a modern, fit-for-purpose vehicular adaptation scheme.This is in line with the general view that we need to move away from a medical criteria-based approach to a needs-based approach.

Under the aegis of the Department of Taoiseach officials from relevant Departments and agencies are meeting to discuss the issues arising from the NDIS report and to map a way forward. One of these issues which is being examined is how the DDS can be replaced. Four meetings of the group have been held, in July, November, December 2023; and March 2024.

The Department of Finance submitted a note to the group with my approval in mid-January 2024. This note outlines a proposal for a replacement scheme for the DDS which would be a needs-based, grant-led approach for necessary vehicle adaptations that could serve to improve the functional mobility of the individual. This proposal is in line with what the NDIS Transport Working Group Report endorsed. Further consideration is being given to the principles and parameters for a new scheme in line with best international practice.

Finally, it is also important to note that I have no role in relation to the granting or refusal of PMCs and the HSE and the Medical Board of Appeal must be independent in their clinical determinations.