Keira Keogh (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Both of the witnesses talked about access to work. In Mayo, there is a lack of efficient public transport. On Achill Island, TFI Anseo, which allow people to book transport, is being trialled for a year. It is proving very good so far. In general, a massive shift is needed in the context of transport for disabled people, particularly when we see the notice that needs to be given in respect of trains or when we are talking about taxi drivers pulling off. For people of school age, while the system is far from perfect, and there are huge challenges still with bus places, we understand that we really need to get everybody on a bus and to school. Some kids are travelling 20 to 40 minutes to get to school. However, when you leave school, you are on your own. Surely we should just carry on that system into further education and the workplace. A massive shift is needed. We need extra taxis, more accessible bus routes and for people to be able to book transport closer to their journey time. However, it is bigger than that. If we truly want equal access to work for people with disabilities, it has to carry on.