MP welcomes increased benefit entitlement for blind people

South Down MP Eddie McGrady has welcomed the news that the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will be increased for blind people.

Mr McGrady stated, “I have been making ongoing representations to the Minister for Social Development, Ms Margaret Ritchie MLA, and the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Mr James Purnell MP, whom I met with recently to discuss the case for additional assistance for blind people’s mobility.

 Many blind people experience significant barriers to independent mobility and they can often become isolated and find it difficult to access basic services without mobility assistance. It is for these reasons that blind people should have an entitlement to the higher rate mobility component of DLA.

I am pleased that new legislation will be introduced to address this matter, which should have a positive impact on a great many people with significant sight loss.”