Seán Connick (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

I will conclude with some brief remarks, if Opposition Deputies do not object. A small amount of extra effort would be of great assistance. The Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs is considering my proposals regarding sports and community centres. Public facilities at council offices can be made accessible through simple improvements such as doors opening into toilet cubicles rather than opening out. Architects should be on top of these matters but, as they are not, access awareness training is crucial. The legislation in this area should also be strengthened.

We are spending millions annually on social housing and extensions for people with mobility problems. I have long advocated lifestyle housing because every social house should have a bedroom and a bathroom downstairs. People will need to use them at some stage in their lives. Last year, €2 million was spent in Wexford on housing grants for people with disabilities. The total value of the applications received was €6 million.

I welcome the Bill as a positive development and hope we can improve on certain aspects of it during our deliberations on Committee Stage. I thank the Acting Chairman for his latitude in allowing me to conclude.

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