asked the Minister for the Environment if, in view of the fact that the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963, has inadequate provisions in respect of access for the disabled, he will amend the Act so that if local authorities refused planning permission on the grounds of inadequate access for the disabled and if the applicant appeals to the planning authority, the local authorities would not be overruled and liable for costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Access for Disabled.
21.
The provision of access for the disabled is not basically a planning matter and it would be inappropriate to approach the matter on the lines suggested by the Deputy. It would be more appropriate to building regulations which are being prepared in my Department. These regulations will include standards to cater for the special needs of the disabled in regard to access to buildings. When the regulations are made, these standards will be obligatory in relation to all appropriate buildings.
Did the Minister say when the regulations would be ready?
No. The technical content of the regulations has been completed but we need to bring in new legislation for their administration. I hope this will be done before June.