Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2023
251. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science in line with recommendation 58 of the Autism Committee’s recent report (details supplied), what would be the capital cost of compiling sensory maps to provide to all Higher Education Institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51543/23]
View answerThe potential cost of procurement of sensory maps is not held by my Department and is likely to vary depending on institutions.
I fully support Universal Design Principals. It is an ambition of our National Access Plan that our Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are inclusive, universally designed environment which support and foster student success and outcomes, equity and diversity, and are responsible to the needs of students and wider communities.
To advance this ambition €3m was provided last year to improve Universal Design across HEIs. A significant number of projects are ongoing in this respect which will benefit all students including Students with Autism. Examples of the projects include training for staff, projects to improve accessibility, accessibility audits, toolkits including digital and physical wayfinding and sensory/quiet spaces.
In addition to this my Department has provided €40 million in capital funding for college campuses across the country for this year. The funding is provided through the Devolved Grant system and will allow universities make a number of important changes across their campuses. Categories of funding to be covered by the grant include universal access-related upgrades.
My Department’s new buildings are designed in line with Universal Design principles, which aim to provide all individuals with equal opportunities to learn without the need for adaptations.
