Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage to discuss Universal Design in new projects and public realm planning

The meeting at 3pm in Committee Room 3 of Leinster House will hear from representatives of:

• Age Action Ireland;
• Irish Wheelchair Association;
• National Disability Authority; and
• Disability Federation of Ireland.

Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Steven Matthews said: “The concept and principles of Universal Design are clearly defined in the Disability Act 2005. Put simply, it is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.

“The Committee welcomes this opportunity to discuss this important topic with these key stakeholders and looks forward to hearing from their representatives what is required to implement Universal Design in all new building projects and public spaces being developed over the coming years.”

The Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage has 14 Members, nine from the Dáil and five from the Seanad.

The meeting in Committee Room 3 can be viewed live on Oireachtas TV.

Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.