Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank all the people who presented this morning. I was speaking in the Dáil so I had to chase out so if I ask a question that has already been asked, please let me know. We are told the obligations and duties of public bodies are clear. They are fairly simple and straightforward. There are common things that people get wrong. How easy would it be to deal with some of the more common and straightforward ones? In that context, how can the witnesses be both proactive and reactive? Perhaps somebody needs a certain amount of assistance or guidance. Not everybody knows about Web design. I would put myself at the top of that list. What is the witnesses' role in being proactive as well as reactive? What sanctions are there, if any, particularly for repeat offenders?

My next question is for the witnesses from Independent Living Movement Ireland. I support what Senator Clonan said about DPOs 100%. He said it - I do not need to repeat it - but that is a crucial point. They must be independent. "Nothing about us without us" is a phrase that trips off all our tongues but that is the reality of having DPOs. That is their job. That is what they do. My specific question concerns cycling and the promotion of cycling, which was mentioned. Many people like to cycle. It is good for their health, etc., but it does present a challenge for visually impaired, blind and older people who are no longer as nimble on their feet as they once were. Have there been any talks taken place between Independent Living Movement Ireland and organisations that promote cycling? Is there any way we can begin to find solutions before the problem just blows up? We have already seen it between car drivers and cyclists. We all share a common space and must find ways to make it work. Is anything happening in this space?

I will address my next question to Mr. Cawley. In other countries, people are taking a human rights approach to this. Could he briefly outline some of that. My next question is addressed to Mr. Harris. I was impressed by his candour when he spoke about the fact that accommodation and adjustment for people with autism cannot be codified in the same way as physical adjustments, etc., and that needs can vary and sometimes even conflict. That is just the reality. Can Mr. Harris elaborate on that? Am I asking too much when I ask whether there are common denominators? Are there things that can be put in place that might not work for everybody all the time but begin that journey?