Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
304. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the plans his Department has in line with the Cost of Disability in Ireland research report, to invest in transport infrastructure ensuring accessibility for those with disabilities and additional needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44135/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs stated in previous PQ responses to the Deputy, I welcome the Cost of Disability report published by the Department of Social Protection. I am acutely aware of the concerns outlined in the report with regards to the cost of transport, particularly personalised or individualised transport requirements for Persons with Disabilities, and acknowledge the important role that transport plays in all our lives.
I must emphasis to the Deputy that specialised non-public (closed) door-to-door services do not fall under my aegis; nevertheless, I am fully committed to strengthening our public transport offerings and progressively making them accessible for all, especially for Persons with Disabilities, Persons with Reduced Mobility and Older People. In this regard, my Department has in place a funding programme of €15.35 million aimed toward retrofitting older infrastructure and facilities. Through the National Transport Authority (NTA), we are using this funding in 2022 to roll out more accessible bus stops, wheelchair accessible taxis and improve train station accessibility. In addition, the NTA will continue to support Persons with Disabilities to travel independently on the public transport network through initiatives such as the Just A Minute (JAM) Card and the provision of Disability Awareness Training to public transport staff. Furthermore, in rural Ireland, where currently more than 90% of Local Link services are accessible, the new Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan aims to provide greater access to public transport services for all users by increasing the frequency and number of routes provided.
My Department is also spearheading several initiatives focused on reducing the cost of public transport services, including the 90-minute fare and the development of Next Generation Ticketing. Furthermore, I have nationally introduced the "Young Adult Card" for all public transport services, which will allow any person nationwide who is between 19 and 23 years old to avail of discounted travel costs. Collectively, these measures will benefit all members of society, including those with hidden disabilities and/or who may not qualify for the Free Travel Scheme.
Additionally, my Department and the NTA will be actively collaborating with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, through a Working Group arising from National Disability Inclusion Strategy (NDIS) and Make Work Pay Report, to review of the current provision of disability transport and mobility schemes across Government Departments, agencies, and local authorities. The group aims to develop a plan to enhance options for travel to work or employment for persons with Disabilities, efficiently utilising available transport resources. We will also continue our membership on the NDIS Steering Group, working together with the other Departments and Agencies that have responsibility for individualised, personalised transport support schemes.
