Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 520: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Part M of the 1988 building regulations make it compulsory for all restaurants to have toilets accessible for wheelchair users; and the action disabled people can take on this matter. [41198/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Part M (Access for People with Disabilities) of the Building Regulations applies to all new buildings, and extensions to or material alterations of existing buildings, to which the public have access and the construction of which commenced on or after 1 June 1992. Part M requires that if sanitary conveniences are provided in a new building as defined, adequate provision shall be made for people with disabilities. Technical Guidance Document M (TGD-M) provides guidance on how to comply with this requirement. Compliance with the Building Regulations in this matter would be primarily the responsibility of the owner or occupier of a building.

Responsibility for enforcement of the Building Regulations is vested in the 37 local building control authorities. Complaints of non-compliance with Part M should be brought to the attention of the authority in whose functional area the relevant building is located. A list of the contact details for each Building Control Officer is available from my Department and can be viewed/downloaded on the Department's website at: www.environ.ie.