Transport Summit - The local and international evolution of transport options to accommodate a diverse society
The conference took place on the 7th & 8th October 2015 at the Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa and delegates from all over South Africa where in attendance.
Eoin’s presentation was entitled ‘The integration of accessible transport in Ireland’ and the presentation provided an overview of how the Irish Government, transport providers and key stakeholders are addressing ‘Transport for All’ throughout Ireland. The presentation included an overview of the Irish Statutory requirements, transport accessibility initiatives that are taking place in Ireland and included a number of case studies on how Irish Transport Providers are making their services accessible to all.
Some of the main discussion items and outcomes of the Summit included:
- Key stakeholders in South Africa must take responsibility to drive the change agenda.
- Strategies and policies must be developed to transform the transport sector to be inclusive of a diverse society.
- In order for accessibility to be delivered key targets and accessibility goals must be regularly monitored and reported on. The government and transport providers ned to be accountable for meeting the targets set.
- One of the biggest barriers to accessible transport is access to funding and grants.
- Research is required which directly involves the accessibility sector. The outcomes of this research need to be followed up and successfully implemented.
- There is a need to establish a public transport advisory committee. This committee should have statutory role and be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the governments targets and goals.
- On-going monitoring and review is key to successfully implement accessible transport. Clear timeframes, targets and timeframes need to be in place.
- A co-ordinated approach is required from all key stakeholders in order for Universal Access to be achieved.
If you would like further information on the conference or how to make transport accessible for all, please do not hesitate to contact one of our team on 01-4151285 or e-mail [email protected]
