Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 June 2014
57. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding access for disabled persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24938/14]
View answerI am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that a programme of works to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities has been carried out at Derrynane House, Caherdaniel, Co. Kerry.
A new lift and stairs have been provided internally and a ramp has been installed at first floor level which accommodates the change in level between the two parts of the house. The upper floors can be visited for the first time by less able visitors.
A new fully accessible toilet has also been provided with enlarged cubicles which are accessible for a range of people including parents with children. Induction loops for the hard of hearing have been installed at the reception and in the AV room, and proposed signage will also enhance the accessibility to both the house and its collections.
Externally, two new designated parking spaces have been provided adjacent to the tea room courtyard and there is level access across the gravel courtyard from these spaces into the house, the coach house, the tea rooms, and the AV rooms. While there are steps in the perimeter path around the courtyard, it would not have been practical to ramp the path at these locations as the gradient required to be compliant with regulations would have resulted in lengths of ramps that would have blocked access to a number of existing doorways.
The access route across the new gravel courtyard has been formed in a special product called NIDA gravel, where the gravel is installed in a special polypropylene honeycomb structure which holds it in place. This produces a stable surface that will not rut, spread or migrate and is suitable for wheeled equipment and wheel chair access.
These works are new and compaction and settlement of the gravel is ongoing. The Commissioners are aware of recent comments regarding the surface and are continuing to monitor it and they are willing to discuss the matter directly.
