Oral Answer by Ministry of National Development on Code on Accessibility
Nov 9, 2016
Mr Murali Pillai: To ask the Minister for National Development whether BCA can enhance the requirement set out in the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment 2013 for access symbols to be affixed on tables set aside for use by persons with disabilities at eating houses so as to make clear that the fixed seats provided at such tables are reserved for accompanying caregivers, family members or friends of persons with disabilities and not for general use.
Answer:
The Code on Accessibility already requires eating establishments like hawker centres, food courts, fast food outlets and restaurants to set aside at least one in every ten tables for use by persons with disabilities. A symbol of access is affixed to these tables.
The intention is clearly to give priority to persons with disabilities and their companions.
People are kind and compassionate. If a person with disability and his/her companions need to use one of these tables, it would be rare for able-bodied diners not to vacate to allow them to do so. Ultimately, what we want is an inclusive and gracious society.