Pat Buckley (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

820. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if funding will be made available to Cork County Council allowing them to install accessible beach infrastructure (details supplied) on beaches in east Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39170/25]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Improving the accessibility of outdoor amenities and venues, including beaches, is a very important aspect of the work involved in promoting the full participation of disabled people within their local communities.

Issues relating to the accessibility of beaches as public spaces is the responsibility of the relevant Local Authority, and therefore related to the broader remit of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

On a national level, ensuring that we have accessible outdoor spaces nationwide will involve many departments and public bodies working collaboratively. There are many dimensions involved in this work, going well beyond the remit of any one department or Minister. In 2024, the Department of Health introduced a scheme supporting the improvement of accessibility and safety at designated swimming locations across the country. This saw the allocation of €15,000 to improve pedestrian and disability access to swimming locations at Garretstown, Garrylucas and Inchydoney beaches.

The scheme is being operated in 2025, with a call for funding applications having issued on 11 July. The scheme is being administered by Sport Ireland on behalf of the Department of Health, and interested parties are advised to contact that agency directly.

To develop and coordinate the necessary whole of government work on disability issues, my Department is leading on the development of the next National Disability Strategy, which will be a framework for ambitious joined up action on disability policy. The accessibility of communal spaces, including public amenities and venues, the built environment, infrastructure and transport will be key considerations of the Strategy, with publication expected in the coming months.