Minister Canney announces framework for new Vehicle Adaptation Scheme
Press Release from Department of Transport
From: Department of Transport
- Published on: 2 October 2026
- Last updated on: 2 October 2026
Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, today announced details of the new Vehicle Adaptation Scheme (VAS), following Government approval of proposals in July. The new Scheme will provide financial support to drivers and passengers who require adaptations to enter, exit, or operate a vehicle. This is intended to enhance the personal mobility options of people who cannot use or access any public transport, or who may need private transport to get to and from public transport, in line with the Government’s National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People.
Minister Canney and Department of Transport officials have made significant progress in recent months towards the introduction of the VAS, working with stakeholders to establish the core principles and parameters of the Scheme. These have been guided by the proposals set out by the Transport Working Group of the National Disability Inclusion Strategy and the Senior Officials Group on Disability, as well as further engagement and consultation. Welcoming Minister Canney’s announcement of the high-level framework for the Scheme, Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien, said:
“The Government is committed to improving accessibility and inclusion across all aspects of society. I’m delighted to see the framework announced today, which will remove barriers to mobility and make transport more accessible for many people with disabilities, in particular those with difficulties in accessing public transport.”
Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien
“The Vehicle Adaptation Scheme will bring invaluable support to drivers and passengers alike, enabling them to make the adaptations they need to be access transport practically, reliably and in the way that best suits their needs. I thank all those who have been instrumental in developing this framework, including officials in my own Department and across Government, for the work that has enabled this Scheme to take shape. Most of all I thank the individuals and organisations who have advocated for the needs of those with disabilities, and taken part in consultations, for guiding its development.”
Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney
“By helping to meet the cost of adapting vehicles for drivers and passengers who require assistance, this Scheme will provide practical support to people who need assistance to enter, exit or operate a vehicle. This will enable them to travel more independently and, importantly, remain connected to their communities.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer
The Scheme will be simple to access, use, and receive payments through. It will not be means tested and applicants needing adaptations will not be required to pay upfront themselves.
The operational framework for the Scheme is:
- Drivers or passengers who require vehicle adaptations to enter, exit, or operate a vehicle will be able to apply for financial support
- Applications will include details of the supplier, chosen from a pre-approved list, who will carry out the adaptation works
- Applications will be assessed and those eligible will receive a grant approval letter, with a copy sent to the nominated supplier
- The applicant will then arrange for the approved adaptations to be completed
- Once the work has been carried out, the supplier will issue the applicant with the relevant modification details, including technical information, declarations, and supporting documentation
- The applicant then submits this information and, following verification of the claim, payment will be made directly to the supplier on behalf of the applicant.
The Vehicle Adaptation Scheme is being developed as a standalone support. It does not replace the existing Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme operated by the Department of Finance.
The Scheme will open for applications early in 2027. Aspects of its administration and delivery will be finalised in the coming weeks, and full details of the Scheme will be published once agreed.
