I’m pleased to have an opportunity to speak in this debate as Plaid Cymru spokesperson on social justice and equalities and as chair of the cross-party group on learning disabilities. Plaid Cymru is fully supportive of measures to improve all kinds of public accessibility for disabled people and those with specific needs, and we are pleased to see this proposal to ensure that Changing Places toilets are available across Wales being tabled, and we are pleased to support the proposal.

Being able to access toilet facilities when needed is fundamental to an individual’s dignity and health. But, being able to access such a toilet is often difficult for disabled people, and if you have complex or multiple disabilities, being able to access a toilet that meets your needs is even more of a challenge.

As the motion suggests, although these appropriate and vital facilities for individuals who require personal support to use the toilet or to change pads are available in some places now, the process of installing facilities of this kind in public places in Wales has been too slow and inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. For example, there is only one registered Changing Places toilet in Ceredigion and Powys—a situation that I am sure that all Members will agree is unacceptable. This means that there is no equality of access to appropriate facilities for all of the citizens of Wales, regardless of their location or physical ability.

It was Mencap Cymru that led the Changing Places campaign in Wales back in 2008. They have spoken about the difference that being able to access Changing Places toilets can make to people with disabilities and their families, in terms of being able to enjoy time out of their homes, be it in public places such as theatres, cinemas or shopping centres, or opportunities to enjoy parks, rural areas, areas of natural beauty or tourist attractions. Without these facilities, these opportunities that should be available to everyone are only available to the few. Mencap says that the funding allocated to install Changing Places toilets in Oakwood, St Fagans, Llangollen, Museum Wales in Cardiff, Pili Palas and Corris visitor centre has been transformational in ensuring that disabled people and tourists can enjoy some of Wales's finest attractions. But there is a pressing need for more such facilities to expand the kinds of experiences and leisure opportunities available to people in all parts of Wales.

These facilities are vital and, as Mark Ishwerood said, they boost the tourism industry. The managers of these attractions say that they receive a number of calls from people who wish to check whether they have a Changing Places toilet before they visit. And if we are to be an equal nation, if we want to lead the way in terms of inclusive tourism, then the provision of these kinds of facilities is central to that laudable aim that we should all support. The visitor levy could support this kind of innovative and inclusive development. 

It's hard to believe that any planning application for new buildings can fail to include a Changing Places toilet. How can we justify not providing a toilet for everyone, regardless of their needs and regardless of where they live? If we are agreed on this, then I encourage everyone to support this motion.