Dublin Bus Faces Criticism Over Accessibility Failures
Blind Advocate Details Repeated Disembarkation Issues
A visually impaired disability advocate, Áine Wellard, has lodged multiple complaints against Dublin Bus, alleging drivers repeatedly failed to provide reasonable assistance when disembarking, resulting in falls and ongoing injury. The incidents highlight ongoing concerns about accessibility for passengers with disabilities.
First Incident: Refusal to Approach Kerb
On April 15th, Wellard was travelling from Poolbeg Street to Sandymount when the bus stopped a significant distance from the kerb. Despite requesting the driver to move closer three times, her pleas were ignored. The driver reportedly told her to simply extend her foot further, a suggestion she deemed unsafe given her pre-existing back condition.
“When we reached the stop, there was a big gap between the curb and the step of the bus… He told me that I should just put my foot out a bit further to reach the kerb.”
—Áine Wellard, Disability Advocate
Attempting to bridge the gap, Wellard lost her balance and fell, sustaining back injuries that continue to affect her almost two months later. She also stated that a previous incident at the same stop saw a driver dismiss her concerns, implying she was exaggerating her difficulties.
Second Incident: Ramp Placement Hazard
Just a month later, on Pearse Street, Wellard encountered a similar issue. After again requesting the driver to pull closer to the kerb, she was offered the use of the wheelchair ramp. However, the ramp was deployed directly in front of a bus stop pole, causing Wellard to walk into it.
According to a 2023 report by the National Transport Authority, 95% of Dublin Bus vehicles are now wheelchair accessible, but ensuring safe deployment of ramps and appropriate kerb positioning remains a challenge. National Transport Authority Accessibility Report
Complaint Response Deemed Unsatisfactory
Wellard filed two formal complaints with Dublin Bus, citing the company’s contractual obligation to minimize the gap between bus and kerb. However, she expressed disappointment with the response, stating that Dublin Bus refused to disclose whether the complaints were upheld or if any disciplinary action was taken against the drivers involved.
Dublin Bus claimed that GDPR regulations prevented them from sharing investigation details. This assertion was challenged by Stuart Anderson, CEO of GDPR consultancy XpertDPO, who argued that Wellard should be entitled to information regarding the handling of her personal data within the complaint process.
Dublin Bus did not respond to a request for comment regarding these allegations.
The incidents raise serious questions about the training and sensitivity of Dublin Bus drivers regarding the needs of passengers with disabilities, and the effectiveness of the company’s complaint handling procedures.
