Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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1401. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will instruct the National Roads Authority to carry out an audit of the transport needs in counties Cavan, Monaghan and Meath for persons to be able to get to work; if persons with disabilities are being provided with equal access in these counties; if his Department will engage with Cavan, Monaghan and Meath county councils to provide same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36251/17]

Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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1403. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of the existing fleet of public transport in counties Cavan and Monaghan and throughout the country that are disability friendly, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36253/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1401 and 1403 together. ​

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. 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 a more detailed reply in relation to public transport accessibility in Cavan, Monaghan and Meath and throughout the country. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.