I request that the business of Dáil Éireann be suspended under Standing Order 31 to discuss a matter of urgent public importance, namely, the discontinuance, because of lack of funding, of the Vantastic transport for people with disabilities which may result in the loss of employment and educational and training opportunities for more than 300 people with disabilities who are totally dependent on this door to door service; and the lack of action by the Government which, in spite of its stated commitment to the provision of accessible public transport, has failed to provide the necessary funds to allow this vital service to continue.
Requests to move Adjournment of Dáil under Standing Order 31.
An Ceann Comhairle: Before coming to the Order of Business, I propose to deal with a number of related notices under Standing Order 31 from Deputies Theresa Ahearn, O'Sullivan, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, Joe Higgins and Gormley. I propose to call on the Deputies in the order in which they submitted their notices to my office. I call first on Deputy Ahearn to state the matter of which she has given notice.
In accordance with Standing Order 31, I request that the business of the Dáil be suspended to discuss the following matter of urgent public importance, namely, the serious hardship created for people with disabilities in the Dublin area arising from the suspension of the Vantastic transport scheme, following financial difficulties, especially in light of the continuing transport difficulties faced by people with disabilities as a result of the general unavailability of accessible buses and the shortage of accessible taxis; and the need for financial support from the Government to allow the Vantastic scheme to recommence operations.
I request leave to have the business of the House suspended on a specific and important matter of public interest which requires urgent consideration, namely, the urgent need for immediate Government funding to restore the Vantastic service, which is the only real transport option for 300 disabled people and their carers, relatives and friends.
(Dublin West): Under Standing Order 31, I seek the suspension of Dáil business to discuss the following matter of urgent public importance, namely, the need for immediate State funding for the Vantastic project, a crucial transport facility which is critical in enabling people with disabilities and impaired mobility to have freedom of movement.
Under Standing Order 31, I wish to have the business of the House suspended to discuss the following issue of public importance, namely, the current crisis affecting the Vantastic project run by the Centre for Independent Living which, due to lack of funding, has had to cease operation resulting in a hugely detrimental effect on many people with disabilities who depend on the service for their transport needs; and the urgent requirement for the Government to re-establish funding for this worthy project.
Having fully considered the matters, I do not consider them to be contemplated by Standing Order 31. Therefore, I cannot grant leave to move the motions.
What will the Government do about this matter?
It is a disgrace that for the second day in a row people with disabilities are being forced to protest outside the gates.
I call the Order of Business.
(Interruptions).
What will the Government do about this matter?
Will the Minister make a statement?
We must proceed with the Order of Business.
I accept the Ceann Comhairle's ruling on this matter but, in view of the widespread and unanimous support for action to be taken, I invite the relevant Minister to give some indication of the Government's proposed response to this matter on the Order of Business.