Access Rights for Assistance Dogs

Assistance Dogs work with children with autism and their families and it is the child who has access rights although it is the parent, who has attended training is the handler and Assistance Dog Owner. Disabled people cannot be discriminated against under Irish law.

The Equal Status Acts, 2000-2015 prohibits discrimination against disabled people when accessing goods and services. This means that an Assistance Dog owner cannot be refused access with their dog in cafes, shops, gyms, nail salons or any other business.  

Under Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act, 2014 which is more commonly known as the “Public Sector Duty”, all public bodies shall eliminate discrimination, promote equality of opportunity, and protect the human rights and treatment of its members, staff, and the people to whom they provide services. A public body may include any department of state, local authority, health service executive, university, institute of technology or education and training board. 

Assistance Dogs are permitted access to:

• all forms of public transport including bus, train, tram, taxi, plane or ferry; 

• all forms of accommodation including AirBnB's, Hostel's or holiday rental properties; and

• all establishments that provide food including cafes, restaurants, pubs, delis and supermarkets.

It is necessary to note that making an establishment aware of your intended visit can make planning easier for both parties. There are instances where the Assistance Dog may not be permitted to enter a property and the business should provide "reasonable accommodation" if it is not practical for the Assistance Dog to participate.

If you have any questions relating to access please do contact us.