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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Mar 1998

Vol. 488 No. 7

Written Answers. - Wheelchair Accessible Taxis.

Alan M. Dukes

Question:

292 Mr. Dukes asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the reason he lowered the height regulations for doors and interior height areas of wheelchair accessible taxies by way of Statutory Instrument No. 47 of 1998; if these modifications impose obstacles to wheelchair users; and if he will give consideration to withdrawing this Statutory Instrument. [7148/98]

Liz McManus

Question:

297 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the serious concern expressed by the Forum of People with Disabilities regarding his decision to reduce the height requirements for wheelchair accessible taxis and the discomfort likely to be caused to wheelchair users as a result; the reason the height requirements were reduced; if he will reconsider his decision in the light of the concerns expressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7308/98]

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.

Ireland is one of a small number of EU member states to have developed a formal specification for wheelchair accessible taxis. This has been done by my Department to support the bringing into service of a fleet of taxis which the disabled community will be able to use conveniently and safely. While I am satisfied that the new specification is of a high standard, it will of course remain open to further improvement and refinement. My Department will work with all interested parties towards this end.
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