Reference was made to various challenges. For example, in some train stations the lift may be out of order some days or there might be issues with the disabled toilets. Senator Flynn asked me to ask if any technology is being developed to make sure that everybody is able to access buses or trains in spite of the challenges in any particular station on a given day where a number of issues might arise. What kind of engagement is there at a higher level with local authorities that bring forward the challenges they meet in order to provide full accessibility. I refer to the discussions that have been had with local authorities on the location of bus stops and their accessibility for somebody with a wheelchair right across the country not just in the cities but in rural areas as well, in particular with Local Link, which is a fantastic facility, coming on stream. It has changed people lives' enormously for the better. There are a number of issues that we would like to see.

It was stated that the group had not met since 2022. What is the reason for meetings not taking place? Should we not have every single group that is charged with making sure that people with disabilities have the best possible public service meeting in tandem?

My questions are about facilities being out of service on particular days. Another one relates to lifts or disabled toilets not being publicly accessible. I also inquired about extra accommodation on buses and trains for people with disabilities, bearing in mind the percentage of people who are classified with a disability. What are the challenges in terms of the statutory bodies that should be meeting about disabilities and what can be done to make sure that is happening? Reference was made to one person being on the various boards. Is that a policy decision that must be changed at departmental level? What exactly must be done? Does it require legislation or a statutory instrument?