LIMERICK people are being asked for their views on the provision of changing areas with toilets for disabled people in public buildings such as hospitals, schools, shopping centres and hotels.
This follows the launch of a public consultation on a proposed amendment to building regulations to make provision for a changing places toilet in certain buildings.
A changing places toilet offers larger supported facilities that address the needs of people for whom current accessible sanitary accommodation is inadequate. These facilities enable people with complex care needs to take part in everyday activities such as travel, shopping, family days out or attending a sporting event.
The Department of Local Government and Housing is seeking submissions from the public, particularly people with disabilities who use changing places toilets, people who support others to use changing places toilets, builders, building designers and building owners.
According to Minister of State Peter Burke as many as 80 extra changing areas and places with toilets could be provided nationwide each year if the regulations are changed.
“Facilities such as these are needed to allow equal access to social activity and trips away from home for all citizens, and allow people with disabilities enjoy life in ways that I know many of us take for granted.
“I strongly encourage all those who may be impacted by the proposals to make their views known to the Department.”
Submissions should be emailed to buildingstandards@housing.gov.ie by 5pm on Thursday, May 12.
