Updating Directive 2001/85/EC on accessibility requirements on public transport

24.10.2019

Question for written answer E-003441/2019
to the Commission
Rule 138
Matt Carthy (GUE/NGL)

Will the Commission indicate whether it intends to recast Directive 2001/85/EC, which lays down provisions for wheelchair spaces on public transport?

Annex III, Figure 21 of the Directive, lays down the dimensions of a wheelchair and the space required for it, yet people with disabilities in my constituency have raised the issue that these specifications are outdated.

As technology has advanced, more people with disabilities are using power wheelchairs which are of different dimensions, and find they are unable to utilise allocated wheelchair spaces on buses.

Can the Commission outline how they will address this, and ensure public transport provides proper accessibility to people with disabilities?