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Press Release (11 September 2007):
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This Press Release has also been made available in Adobe Acrobat and MS Word formats for downloading. Adobe Acrobat version: Press Release (26k) |
The Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee today launched a twelve-week consultation on designing and operating passenger vessels and passenger shore infrastructure so that disabled people can use ships and ferries.
The Committee was set up by the Secretary of State for Transport to provide independent advice on the transport needs of disabled people.
Launching the consultation, Neil Betteridge, DPTAC Chair, said:
"DPTAC is seeking views from the shipping industry, disabled people and the government to help us produce the very best guidance; so that those who design, build and operate ships and ports can make it easy for disabled people to travel by sea, estuary, river or canal."
Jean Dunlop, Chair DPTAC Maritime group said:
"Providing ships and infrastructure that make it easier for disabled people to travel can improve travelling by ship for everyone. Disabled people, especially those with luggage or travelling in groups, often find travelling by ship a pleasant way to increase their mobility and this guidance will help them to achieve seamless travel."
The consultation runs from 11 September to 5 December 2007.
Notes to editors:
1. The Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) was set up under the Transport Act of 1985 to advise Government on the transport needs of all disabled people. It has 20 members (of whom at least half must be disabled people), representing a wide range of transport interests. Members are appointed by Ministers and are unpaid, apart from the reimbursement of expenses.
2. The consultation document (Designing and Operating Passenger Vessels and Passenger Shore Infrastructure: Guidance on Meeting the Needs of Persons with Reduced Mobility) can be read and downloaded on our website at www.dptac.gov.uk/pubs/maritime/consult/2007/index.htm. It is possible to alter the font and text size of documents on our website. We can also make this consultation document available in large print and in audio format.
3. For further information on DPTAC, contact the Secretary on 020 7944 8012 (Fax 020 7944 6998), Mincom 0207 944 3277 or email: dptac@dft.gsi.gov.uk.