Written answer
Departmental Properties
All offices are accessible; Valentia and Malin Head rescue centres are non-public specialist sites where adaptations are deemed disproportionate, while new stations meet Part M.
304. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport in cases in which a building under his control is not wheelchair accessible, the reason for this; his plans to remedy this; and the timeline for measures to be completed. [65356/26]
Comment on this
326. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the wheelchair accessibility of all buildings under his control; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65326/26]
Comment on this
I propose to take Questions Nos. 304 and 326 together.
The Department is committed to promoting accessibility across all of its facilities. All Department offices are accessible.
However, the Marine Rescue Sub Centres at Valentia and Malin Head are specialist operational sites that are required in their current locations to ensure comprehensive national coverage for emergency 999/112 calls. These sites are used by a small cohort of IRCG staff and are not open to members of the public. Considering their operational function, limited occupancy, and the absence of public access, significant accessibility adaptations would not currently represent a practical or proportionate investment.
The OPW manages, on our behalf, the Irish Coast Guard’s (IRCG) properties. Since 2013, all new build IRCG volunteer stations have been constructed in compliance with Part M of the Building Regulations. Furthermore, alterations to existing buildings, such as upgrades or extensions, include design to ensure compliance with the regulations where appropriate.