Nicosia, Cyprus. A legislative proposal on access for support dogs accompanying people into public buildings and public transport is set to be voted on at the House plenum on Thursday. The proposal was submitted by Diko MP Christos Senekis.
Committee discussion and expected vote
The proposal was discussed on Monday at the House human rights committee. Committee chair Irini Charalambides described the proposal as very important, and committee members indicated their intention to vote in favour of it at the plenum.
Access rights and separate legislation
Charalambidou said the proposal establishes acceptance of access rights for people with service dogs. She also said the committee is beginning deliberations on a separate proposed law submitted by Ecologists Movement MP Charalambos Theopemptou, aimed at setting a broader framework including special provisions for assistance dogs.
How the proposals differ
Charalambidou said the two proposals are not contradictory. She said Senekis’ proposal creates the basis for prosecuting cases where access is denied to an assistance dog, while Theopemptou’s proposal defines the state’s responsibilities regarding such dogs.
Assistance dog numbers
Last week the committee heard that despite there being more than 2,000 visually impaired people on the island, only five have assistance dogs.
Do you support legislation guaranteeing access rights for people accompanied by service dogs in public buildings and on public transport?