Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
797. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the reasoning behind public bodies being exempt from Section 25 of the Disability Act; the process for which a higher education institution as a public body can apply for an exemption; the designated person(s) responsible for applying for the exemption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10034/24]
View answerUnder Section 25 of Disability Act 2005, public bodies must ensure that public buildings are accessible "as far as practicable" to persons with disabilities. This requirement is outlined in part M of the Building Regulations Act, and public buildings must abide by any amendment made to part M within 10 years of that amendment.
All capital projects including new construction, material alteration or extensions funded by my Department are required to be fully compliant with Technical Guidance Document Part M (building regulations - access and use) and all subsequent updates.
The Disability Act 2005 also states that public bodies must put at least one staff member in charge of providing assistance and guidance to people with disabilities who access its services. I can confirm that my Department has an Access Officer appointed in this regard.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
