Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Feb 2001

Vol. 530 No. 6

Written Answers. - Wheelchair Accessible Taxis.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

303 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the concern among some elderly people that some wheelchair accessible taxis are inaccessible to persons with poor mobility, but who do not use a wheelchair as the threshold is too high; if he will ensure this concern is examined by his officials in reviewing taxi standards and regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4745/01]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

I am aware of the concerns referred to in the question. I have indicated that it is intended to consult extensively with representatives of consumer groups, disabled persons, taxi service providers and others to develop quality improvements for taxi services in the medium term. These may include, if appropriate, further improvements of the existing specification for wheelchair accessible taxis.