We are very happy to present these Guidelines for Accessible Maritime Passenger Transport, which we believe, will make a valuable contribution towards the provision of better maritime passenger transport services for passengers with reduced mobility. The commitment of the government to making Ireland a better place to live for people with disabilities or mobility impairments is given a statutory basis in the Disability Act 2005.
Transport for All is the Department of Transport's plan for improving access to transport services in Ireland. The Maritime Passenger Transport Forum is made up of representatives from government departments, from the National Disability Authority, from organisations representing people with disabilities, and from port authorities and vessel operators. The Forum is charged with monitoring, advising on and contributing to proposals for access improvements in the maritime passenger transport sector. The Guidelines presented here have been drawn up in response to a recommendation of the Forum and are built on the Transport for All principle that focuses on a whole journey approach.
These Guidelines represent a significant step forward towards ensuring that maritime passenger transport services are accessible to all. They contain a range of practical advice and information and are designed as a key support to all those involved in providing maritime passenger transport services, including passenger vessel owners and operators, port operators and local authorities, as well as Government departments with a statutory remit in relation to maritime passenger transport services.
The advice given covers all aspects of a journey, including advice on providing accessible information for planning the journey, on improving access on board vessels, on making shore side facilities accessible, on disability awareness training for staff and on improving communications with passengers.
Maritime passenger transport services link Ireland to neighbouring countries and provide regular services to the offshore islands, both for local people and visitors. They play an important role in the promotion of tourism and appreciation of our cultural life through maritime excursions and trips. These guidelines are intended to enhance the sustainability of this key sector and assist in opening it up for many more people to enjoy.
Noel Dempsey, T.D. Minister for Transport
Siobhan Barron Director, NDA