Vol. 501 No. 6
266 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he has satisfied himself with the safety procedures in place in relation to private coaches used to carry passengers in wheelchairs particularly in relation to the number of clamps for wheelchairs provided; if wheelchairs should be clamped to the floor in these circumstances; the plans, if any, he has to review this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6833/99]
All vehicles used for the carriage of passengers for reward are subject to licensing by the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána, who must be satisfied that the vehicle in question is safe for the carriage of passengers, including mobility impaired passengers where relevant, before a licence can be granted. Technical advice is provided by my Department on a case by case basis as requested.
There are no international standards specifically for the carriage of wheelchair passengers in coaches. Ireland is actively supporting at EU level a proposal for a type approval directive, currently at Council working group, relating to bus construction standards, which includes within its scope provision for passenger safety. The proposals specifically address the particular requirements of mobility impaired passengers including those in wheelchairs.
