Dr. Aideen Hartney:

I thank members for their questions. We were also struck by the Irish Wheelchair Association, IWA, survey this morning. I will note that the Minister has asked the National Disability Authority to develop a code of practice for accessible public buildings. The impact of that is that it will provide practical guidance for public bodies as to how they can make their premises more accessible to persons with disabilities. We would have a monitoring role in that respect. It is again about measuring and demonstrating performance that can hopefully drive change. We all know that public bodies are well meaning but sometimes need practical guidance that can help.

While the EPSEN Act is overdue for full commencement, there are developments within the system and increased investment from the Department of Education which we welcome. Some of those things, such as the school inclusion model, are showing a new approach to providing supports in order that children can participate in mainstream education. Even though the Act itself has not commenced, work is under way. We welcome that and advise its continuation while we await the commencement of the Act.