Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 July 2017
387. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to make public transport more accessible for wheelchair users; the extent of the public transport network which is wheelchair accessible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33226/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra388. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the initiatives in place to encourage transport providers to make their services as accessible as possible to wheelchair users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33227/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra389. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he is taking to alleviate the fact that persons with mobility and sensory impairments must give at least 24 hours notice before journeying with railway transport services; the further steps he is taking to reduce this notice time; and the way in which the target time may be reduced or indeed be replaced by fully accessible carriages. [33228/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 387 to 389, inclusive, together.
Accessibility features are built into all new public transport infrastructure projects and vehicles from the design stage and new systems such as the Luas are fully accessible. In addition, 100% of the Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann city fleets are wheelchair accessible, as well as approximately 80% of the Bus Éireann coach fleet.
With regard to existing infrastructure, there is an ongoing Accessibility Grants Programme to upgrade public transport infrastructure and facilities to help improve transport accessibility across the country. The programme is managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA) on behalf of my Department.
Funding is being provided to the NTA in 2017 for accessibility upgrade works at a number of rail stations; for accessible bus stops and bus stations; and for a Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Grant Scheme. Funding is also provided via the NTA for the Travel Assistance Scheme which is run by Dublin Bus. Under the scheme an assistant can accompany people who need help using public transport and to plan a journey on Dublin Bus, Luas and the DART.
The issue of staffing levels at train stations is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. I understand that Iarnród Éireann plans to confirm new pilot arrangements for mobility-impaired customers shortly, which will dramatically reduce the current advance notification period and ensure a better response when customers requiring assistance cannot give notice.
In light of both the NTA's and Iarnród Éireann's responsibilities in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to both organisations for direct reply on the issues raised. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
The referred reply under Standing Order 42A was forwarded to the Deputy.
