I propose to take Questions Nos. 292 and 297 together.
The Road Traffic (Public Service Vehicles) (Amendment) Regulations, 1998 (S. I. No. 47 of 1998) were made principally to amplify and clarify elements of the specification earlier established for wheelchair accessible taxis by the Road Traffic (Public Service Vehicles) (Amendment Regulations, 1997 (S. I. No. 193 of 1997).
The new specification makes more explicit provision regarding access to vehicles and restraint systems for wheelchairs and their occupants. It also makes clear that a space for wheelchair users must be reserved in a taxi when it is standing or plying for hire.
The height specification for door and interior of vehicles was also modified to ensure the availability for wheelchair users and taxi service providers of a reasonable range of vehicles suitable for use as wheelchair accessible taxis.