Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 April 2018
236. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 239 of 18 April 2018, the residential units which are specifically wheelchair liveable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18135/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department does not have details of residential units that are specifically wheelchair liveable. My reply to Question No. 239 of 18 April 2018 sets out the requirements of Part M of the Building Regulations and indicates that these may be regarded as the statutory minimum level of provision. While Part M provides, inter alia, that new dwellings are visitable, the accompanying technical guidance encourages building owners and designers to have regard to the principles of universal design and to consider making additional provisions where practicable and appropriate. I am satisfied that Part M, in fostering an inclusive approach to the design and construction of the built environment, strikes a reasonable balance and provides flexibility that can be tailored to meet specific needs at local level through each Local Authority's Housing Disability Steering Group.
