Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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1336. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the 2017 allocation for the wheelchair accessible vehicle grant scheme; and the amount he plans to allocate in each of the years 2018 to 2021. [34963/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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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. In addition, 100% of the Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann city fleets are wheelchair accessible, as well as approximately 80% of the Bus Éireann coach fleet.

With regard to existing infrastructure, there is an ongoing Accessibility Grants Programme to upgrade public transport infrastructure and facilities to help improve transport accessibility across the country.  The programme is managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA) on behalf of my Department.

Funding is being provided to the NTA in 2017 for accessibility upgrade works at a number of rail stations; for accessible bus stops and bus stations; and for a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Grant Scheme (WAV 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 in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply in relation to the funding available for the WAV Programme over the next few years.  Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.