AQW 40391/11-15

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 07/01/2015
Answered On Date: 22/01/2015
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Regional Development what transport provision exists for people with visual impairment; and how cuts to his Department’s budget will impact on this provision.

Answer:

I can advise that Translink services are available to all members of the public including those with visual impairments. I understand that making these services as accessible as possible can play a vital role in enabling people with a disability to fully participate in the community. My Department will continue to provide revenue support to Translink and I have been successful in securing additional resource from the Executive which will allow Translink to continue to provide much needed town services.

Additionally the Disability Action Transport Scheme operated by Disability Action and Dial-A-Lift services provided by Rural Community Transport Partnerships, that my Department also funds, offers specialised public transport options for people with all disabilities including those with visual impairments. It is my intention that my Department continues to support these schemes subject to EU rules and licensing arrangements, next year and in later years.

Specifically in regard to people with a visual impairment, I announced in October 2014 my Department’s plans to commence the installation of Audio Visual (AV) systems on the Metro bus network in early 2015. The project will involve the installation of AV equipment on 294 Metro buses, including 30 Park and Ride vehicles, and at 191 key bus stops at a total cost of £700k. The Audio Visual (AV) systems will provide all passengers with real time information relating to bus location via a speaking voice and visual display.