McClarty demands urgent review of Transport for people with Physical Disabilities
People with physical disabilities are not being afforded adequate transport to suit their needs, an MLA is claiming.
East Londonderry Assembly member David McClarty is writing to the new Health Minister about the situation which he describes as “grossly inadequate” in some circumstances.
Mr. McClarty says he has been made aware of one particular case where an adult in the Northern Board area was put through a traumatic experience because a bus used to transport people with physical disabilities was not up to standard.
He adds: “It is imperative that this so-called specialised form of transport is fit for purpose.
“In this case passengers being picked up had to negotiate steps to get into the vehicle. For one wheelchair user who was unable to use them, it meant enduring a shuddering tailgate lift at the rear of the bus.
“This turned out to be a frightening ordeal as the lift was obviously in need of servicing.
“I fail to see how buses in service for people with specific needs are not fully serviced. Even newly designed buses seem to incorporate steps which is not ideal in many cases.”
Mr. McClarty also raised another issue that arises: “Health authorities are also using taxis to transport adults with physical disabilities who cannot use buses. This is a waste of valuable resources simply because buses are not adaptable enough to be used for the very purpose for which they are supposed to be designed.
“Surely there is a major discrepancy here? By their very nature buses for transporting people with physical disability should be specifically designed to do so and ultra safely because of the needs of those who are using them.”
Mr. McClarty intends to take the issue up with incoming Health Minister Michael McGimpsey and is also writing to the Health Board, calling for immediate moves to replace buses currently in service and introduce vehicles that can provide safe and suitable transport.
“This is an issue of high priority considering the number of people using specialised transport across the Province.
“It is imperative that those using these services are not put at risk or under needless stress.”