David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 257: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if the taxi companies used by his Department and State agencies under the aegis of his Department have a minimum percentage of taxis which are accessible for people with disabilities and wheelchair users; the amount expended by his Department and State agencies on taxi hire in 2008 and to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23583/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department has accounts with three taxi companies. On average approximately 12% of the companies' fleets are accessible for people with disabilities and wheelchair users.

The amount spent on taxis by my Department in 2008 was €26,996.34. The amount spent to date in 2009 is €9,482.81. Taxis used by my Department's officials are strictly for business purposes and staff are required to ensure that every effort is made to minimise the use of taxis.

Use of taxis and expenditure on taxis by agencies under the aegis of my Department is a matter for the individual agencies.