Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

180. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she will deal with a matter regarding accessibility to social protection offices (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10583/14]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for the acquisition and maintenance of office accommodation for the Department of Social Protection. The Department works closely with OPW in relation to responsibilities under Section 25 of the Disability Act 2005, which requires that public buildings are compliant with Part M of the Building Regulations (2010).

The OPW is very aware of its responsibilities in relation to Sections 25 and 29 of the Disability Act 2005. My Department works with OPW to ensure that upgrading works (to meet the requirements of Part M (2010)) are integrated into all refurbishment projects, prioritising public buildings where members of the public have access.

Since 2012, the OPW and the Department delivered a programme of projects to deliver 44 new and refurbished INTREO offices, all of which are compliant. During 2014, the Department will continue to work closely with OPW to ensure compliance regarding the programme of future projects to continue the delivery of INTREO offices, eighteen of which are programmed for 2014.

The Department does not provide any service from Clarendon Street. However, we are aware of at least one building which pre-dates the Act, where there is no wheelchair access and assume that this is the building in question which has two external steps with no handrail. All customers are advised in advance of their appointment to contact the Department if they have special needs and, in the case of this specific location, alternative service procedures have been put in place for any members of the public who may experience mobility or building access difficulties.