Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with the Deputies on the points they raised. While I understand the frustration with the working group, the problem is also one we had in respect of the capacity issue. We placed advertisements in newspapers and received 50 submissions. The more that came in, the more people became involved and the more complex everything became. At the same time, if we did not consult the Irish Wheelchair Association, the Disability Federation of Ireland and other groups, I would be in the firing line. On the amendments, I note that local authorities have flexibility to improve accessibility, which some have done while others remain weak, as Deputies pointed out. My concern is that there are significant legal issues with the way in which the amendment is drafted, which means I cannot support it.