David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his support and acknowledge the good work in his Department at this level and the progress made. I have supplementary questions on this issue. Will the Minister look at the provision of changing places and toilets in third level institutions? These are toilets used by wheelchair users; they are bigger spaces. It makes a massive difference for people who are wheelchair users if they have these facilities. Perhaps the Minister will take that on board. I know that regulations were signed last year by another Minister, in the Department of housing, making them mandatory in new buildings.

Does the Department have a role in ensuring that transport to and from third-level institutions and places of training is available to people with disabilities? I am aware that some Bus Éireann routes do not have wheelchair-friendly buses. It is all very well having courses and supports but if they cannot get there, it is a big challenge.

See this speech in context