From the Western People Dated: 8th October 2003.
Ballina moves to make town more accessible for wheelchair users.
Ballina Town Council is to form a subcommittee to address the issue of accessibility in the town for the physically challenged. The initiative has been proposed by members of the Council in members of the Council in response to letters received by the Local Authority from individuals, using wheelchairs. They complained of having serious difficulties negotiating their way around the town.
Cllr. Michelle Mulherin noted that the Council had only recently signed up to the Barcelona Declaration on foot of a proposal by Cllr. Willie Nolan. The Declaration advocates the right of disabled people to equal opportunities and recognises their contribution to the society and the environment they live in.
Under its terms Local Authorities undertake to consult people with disabilities and their advocates and to device a plan of action for the implementation of the Declaration. Cllr. Mulherin requested that the Town Engineer investigate the particular issues raised in the correspondence and find ways of alleviating the difficulties being experienced by those using wheelchairs. She also asked that he respond in writing to the authorities of the letters. Cllr. Mulherin said the Local Authority would also have to bear its commitments under the Declaration in mind in all future planning related matters.
Compliance
Cllr. Johnny O’Malley suggested that the Council establish a sub committee to ensure compliance with the terms of the Declaration. Such a committee should liaise with people like those who had written to the Local Authority to complain about accessibility. Lady Mayor Francis McAndrew seconded this proposal. Padraig Moore asked the Council to address the issues as quickly as possible. He said motorists in the town should also be more aware of wheelchair ramps on footpaths.
People do not always know the purpose for the ramps and often obstruct them when parking, he said. Councillors also complained about the poor conditions of many of the County Council roads in Ballina. It can be very difficult for wheelchair users to use these roads.