Councillors at Louth County Council have voted in favour of a new motion that will see special all-terrain wheelchairs being provided at the county’s Blue Flag beaches.
The new proposal which was introduced by Cllr Imelda Munster will see new equipment being provided for those who cannot currently access a beach or the waterfront. The all-terrain wheelchairs will give disabled people more comfort when crossing beaches, the specialised chair can be used solo or with a companion.
Cllr Munster said she was delighted her proposal was passed and told reporters: “There is no reason for Louth County Council not to provide the same as we have some of the best beaches in the country.” “The beach wheelchair costs €3,000 along with civil works at the beaches.” Ms Munster added: “This is a minor cost for an important facility for people with disabilities who currently are denied access to the beach and to the water’s edge.”
The introduction of the new wheelchairs follows the success of a similar scheme introduced by Wexford County Council.