Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 February 2004
270 Ms F. O'Malley asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether it is acceptable that public Irish airports charge for providing facilities for wheelchair users through their busy terminals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4374/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAer Rianta ensures that airport facilities are adapted to the needs of people with disabilities and that persons with disabilities have adequate access to air services. Airport by-laws require service providers, which include airlines, to provide such facilities as are necessary for passengers with disabilities to avail of airline and other services.
Aer Rianta does not provide passenger handling services at the State airports. Such services are being provided by the airlines or their ground handling agents. Accordingly, Aer Rianta does not charge for the use of wheelchair services at Irish airports. Airlines currently using the State airports will arrange to supply wheelchairs free of charge to their customers who are wheelchair users.
