Consultation with User Groups when Reviewing Code on Accessibility in Built Environment
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang’s inquiry regarding the consultation of user groups, like breastfeeding mothers and seniors, during reviews of the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment. Minister Desmond Lee responded that the Building and Construction Authority has regularly updated the Code since 1990 through extensive stakeholder consultations and multi-representative committees. He noted that the 2019 review incorporated public feedback and international studies to address the needs of various societal segments and jurisdictions. Minister Desmond Lee announced that the next review will commence next year with continued extensive engagement of diverse stakeholders. This process will ensure the requirements of persons with disabilities, seniors, and nursing mothers are integrated into the Code’s next version.
Transcript
17 Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for National Development (a) when reviewing the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment, whether the Ministry will consult user groups such as breastfeeding mothers, differently-abled individuals and seniors in updating the Code; (b) if yes, what is the timeline for the consultations and the review; and (c) if not, why not.
Mr Desmond Lee: Since its introduction in 1990, the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment has undergone regular reviews, with its scope progressively expanded to better meet the changing needs of the population. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has consulted stakeholders extensively in this process.
In the most recent review to develop the latest version of the Code in 2019, BCA formed a Code Review Committee, comprising representatives from social service agencies, trade associations and chambers, academia and Government agencies. The Committee consulted a wide range of stakeholders, including industry professionals and members of the public, and studied the needs of various segments of society and requirements in other jurisdictions. A draft version of the Code was also published for public consultation via the BCA and REACH websites.
The next review of the Code will commence next year. BCA will continue to consult various stakeholders extensively when reviewing the Code, to ensure that the needs of user groups such as persons with disabilities, seniors and nursing mothers are taken into account.