Improvements to Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme will make a real difference – Fitzpatrick

Fine Gael TD for Louth, Peter Fitzpatrick, has said that improvements to the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme, announced today by the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan TD, will make a real difference to people across the country.

“Two new categories have been included in the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme to make it more affordable for people with disabilities and carers of people with disabilities to drive.

“Technological changes have provided opportunities for people with severe disabilities to drive their own car. However, the cost of such vehicles can be extremely expensive for people with disabilities, given the extensive adaptations required.

“In recognition of the significant cost of adaptation the category of ‘specifically adapted vehicle’ and ‘extensively adapted vehicle’ are being included in the scheme.

“The VAT and VRT relief for the ‘extensively adapted vehicle’ will be up to €22,000, but the vehicle must be held for 6 years before resale.

“I would like to commend the Irish Wheelchair Association and the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland for their work with the Department of Finance regarding the improvements.

“These changes to the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme will make a real difference to people across the country and I am hopeful that as the economy continues to grow, more money will be available to invest in schemes such as these. Fine Gael is committed to getting people back to work and will use the resources created to reduce taxes and invest in vital services.”