Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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595. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to make public transport more accessible for wheelchair users; the work he has carried out in this area to date; the extent of the public transport network which is wheelchair-accessible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25508/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As part of the public transport investment programme, my Department provides funding to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for a rolling programme of bus replacement and refurbishment of the PSO bus fleet.  This has enabled 100% of the Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann city fleets to be wheelchair accessible, as well as approximately 80% of the Bus Éireann coach fleet and this will increase as the coach fleet is replaced.

Accessibility features are built into all new public transport infrastructure projects and vehicles from the design stage and new systems such as the Luas are fully accessible.  With regard to existing infrastructure, there is an ongoing programme to upgrade public transport infrastructure and facilities to help improve transport accessibility across the country.  The programme is managed by the NTA on behalf of my Department.

In 2017 under the Accessibility Grants Programme, funding is being provided to the NTA for accessibility upgrade works at a number of rail stations; for accessible bus stops and bus stations; and for a Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Grant Scheme. Funding is also provided via the NTA for the Travel Assistance Scheme which is run by Dublin Bus. Under the scheme an assistant can accompany people who need help using public transport and to plan a journey on Dublin Bus, Luas and the DART.

In light of the NTA's responsibility for the administration of the Accessibility Grants Programme, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for a more detailed reply.  Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.