The Irish Wheelchair Association launched a report earlier this week reviewing Government plans for bus stops, footpaths, cycle lanes, pedestrian spaces and other infrastructure. It examines how disability access will be included and provided for in public transport infrastructure. It concluded that the Government approach is chaotic and irresponsible, with no evidence of any mandatory requirements regarding disability access and public transport infrastructure to meet international standards. The census tells us that more than one fifth of people report having at least one long-lasting condition or disability. These are people who will be affected by the lack of accessibility in our public transport infrastructure. Others with small children, including those who push buggies and prams and those with luggage, will also be affected. Therefore, we need to ensure public transport infrastructure is fit for purpose and fully accessible. What steps is the Government taking to address the issues highlighted in the Irish Wheelchair Association's report?

I met representatives of the Irish Wheelchair Association outside Leinster House during the week when they made their protest. We will be discussing this at Cabinet level. The NTA is responsible in many ways for the configuration of urban streetscapes in terms of the sharing of bus, cycle and car lanes. The representatives of the Irish Wheelchair Association say people have suffered in gaining access to buses and so on. It is disappointing because, some years ago at the ability awards, Bus Éireann was applauded regarding access to buses. There seems to be a mixed result but we will talk to the agencies involved. There has to be co-design-----

Yes

-----and clear provision to facilitate people with disabilities.