To ask the Assembly Commission for an update on efforts to improve accessibility in Parliament Buildings.

Mr McGrath

With your permission, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker, I will group questions 5, 12 and 15 together. I thank the Members for their questions. The Assembly Commission has engaged with the Department of Finance to carry out a multifaceted listed building survey for Parliament Buildings that will include a conservation management plan and a disability access audit. The audit commenced on Wednesday 26 March, with three days being spent surveying the Building. It is anticipated that an initial report will be received by May. Any recommendations arising from the report will then be considered.

Mr Tennyson

Can the Member elaborate on any initial findings from the audit?

Mr McGrath

I thank the Member for his question. The initial findings will be presented following the audit, so we will hopefully have them soon. The audit will identify any areas in which improvements can be made in order to enhance accessibility for people with disabilities.

Ms D Armstrong

Is the same consideration given to visitors with limited vision?

Mr McGrath

I thank the Member for her question. I do not have the specific information on that. We can come back to the Member, but I suspect that that is, likewise, included in the audit. I expect that it is, but I am sure that we can write to give you clarity on that.

Mr McGrath

I thank the Member. The disability access audit should be completed and a report with the initial findings presented in May 2025. We will not know until we get the report what works are required. We will hopefully have an update for Members at that stage.