James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies Howlin, Murphy and Canney for their contributions. A number of similar themes were raised. Reference was made to obstructions faced by people with disabilities or visual impairments and the elderly.

My own sister is in a wheelchair and I fully agree with everything that Deputies have said. As it is necessary to get a street furniture licence, I would say to the local authorities that it is their duty to ensure that where they are issuing these licences, the footpaths remain clear of obstructions. There should also be enforcement actions against those who have these licences to make sure they stick to the very clear definitions of the areas provided. Access by people with disabilities is essential. Wheelchair spaces must be respected and it is up to the local authorities, in granting these licences, to ensure that is the case.

I acknowledge this is another repetition of the six month extension. This has been ongoing, again and again. If I was in a court, I might be saying to the judge that I have my instructions. The Minister, Deputy McEntee, is determined to get this onto a permanent footing so that we do not go through this again. Clearly there is a risk if there is no Dáil sitting at a particular time that it could give rise to very serious situations for certain businesses. We all agree that this needs to be passed but the constant renewal of it is not the way to do the business on this. It needs to be put on permanent footing.

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