Ms Sarah Neary:

I will read the definition of universal design first in order that we are clear on what it means. It is defined in the Disability Act as:

the design and composition of an environment so that it may be accessed, understood and used—(i) to the greatest practicable extent,

(ii) in the most independent and natural manner possible,

(iii) in the widest possible range of situations, and

(iv) without the need for adaptation, modification, assistive devices or specialised solutions,by persons of any age or size or having any particular physical, sensory, mental health or intellectual ability or disability.

There is no doubt that to apply the concept of universal design and capture every single piece or part of the built environment is a huge ambition or vision and that it will cost money. In providing for older people, rather than talking about a bespoke or very different unit, we are talking about slightly smaller units, including apartments. We are talking about one or two-bedroom units or about two-bedroom units for three people, rather than two-bedroom units for four people, for example. The units do not look very different from standard units. They are not accommodating every type of physical, sensory or mental disability, but they are certainly very suitable for older people.

It is a question of community and wraparound supports. There are over 400 units, many of which have already been built. It is about examining different aspects of universal design but perhaps not to the full extent of the definition. It is about considering urban renewal and some units being lifetime adaptable using assistive technology. There are such elements in the case studies. It is not a matter of one size fits all.

The National Disability Authority, under the national disability inclusion strategy 2017 to 2021, has been assigned the task of considering universal design solutions for new houses and will make an impact assessment. We are watching it and the timeframe for it is quarter 2 of 2018.