Vol. 504 No. 3
14 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if he will withhold all grants to any sporting body or organisation whose buildings and facilities do not provide for people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11675/99]
Provision of access for people with disabilities is governed by the 1991 building regulations, as currently enforced. Grants under the sports capital programme, the main vehicle for assisting clubs or organisations with the provision of buildings and facilities, are not payable in respect of facilities which do not comply with this provision. A task force under the Irish Sports Council is currently considering the key issues impacting on people with a disability in sport. I understand its recommendations, among other things, will deal with issues such as access to sporting facilities.
I welcome the Minister's reply. Does he insist that the facilities or technology provided for the disabled to ensure easy access are upgraded in cases where grants are paid?
I presume the Deputy is talking about grant aids which have been paid in the past but where the disability factor was not taken on board.
I want to know if the technology and access facilities provided for the disabled are upgraded when grants are paid.
We could raise this matter with the sub-committee which was set up by Deputy Allen. I will relay the Deputy's question to my Department where it will be taken on board.
Is the Minister aware that one of our national airlines is charging £8 for the use of a wheelchair, which is discriminatory and unfair?
The Minister does not have responsibility for that.
I am not aware of that.
