Urgent need for accessible public transport as population ages

New Zealand's ageing population means the need for accessible public transport will increase dramatically over the next two decades, says Health and Disability Commissioner Ron Paterson.

Speaking in support of The Accessible Journey, the final report by the Human Rights Commission from its inquiry into accessible public land transport released today, Mr Paterson said some recommendations could be implemented immediately.

Despite progress in improving accessibility, "significant numbers" of disabled people in New Zealand still experienced difficulties when using public land transport services, he said.

"An ageing population means the need for accessible public land transport services will increase in the next 10 to 20 years."

He particularly endorsed the recommendation for national standards -- with regard to vehicles, infrastructure and service information -- with the Ministry of Transport as the lead agency.

The report recommends a timetable for compliance that spans 30 years, with most services complying with the new standards within 10 to 15 years.

"Many of the recommendations in the report look to the future and the sort of public land transport service disabled people ultimately need to ensure their maximum independence and mobility," Mr Paterson said.

"However, the practical recommendations that have been suggested in relation to bus and train services are also very important and have the potential to immediately enhance the opportunities for disabled people to access and enjoy using public transport."

Disability support and advocacy organisation, CCS, also welcomed the report's findings, acknowledging the right of disabled people to accessible public transport.

CCS spokesman Paul Gibson said this was a right "most other people take for granted".

"Accessible transport has an impact on disabled people's ability to travel to work, take part in education, do their grocery shopping and stay connected with friends and family and their community in general," he said.

"The involvement of disabled people at all levels of planning in the community, including transport, and the understanding of accessibility in that community is essential."

- NZPA