"An Open Letter to the Elected Councillors in Mayo"
The Barcelona Declaration – 10 year on
The Barcelona Declaration was launched in 1995. Those who sign up to it agree to:
Promote disability awareness and ensure the rights of people with disabilities to be different and their right to receive personal attention.
Promote policies and have an equal/disability proof decision-making process.
Consult people with disabilities.
Ensure that people with disabilities have access to the social and physical environments as well as services.
Provide training programmes dealing with equality/disability issues.
Develop monitoring, evaluation and impact assessment procedures for actions, projects, and policies regarding equality/disability issues.
However, almost 10 years later, no concrete evidence exists to show that Local Authorities, through planning, building programmes and elsewhere, are taking the issues of equality seriously enough.
On the contrary, the experience of people such as myself does not inspire confidence that the situation is likely to change for the better any time soon. For example, the existing building regulations are been flouted and no one is being held to account.
Some Networks have attempted to open dialogue with Local Authorities with a view to having a positive input and indicating how a more inclusive approach to disability could assist all elements of the community. Our experience has not been encouraging.
Serious questions must now be asked as to why as many as 75% of Local Authorities have signed up to the Barcelona Agreement, yet so little seems to be changing for people with disabilities. Signing up internationally for high standards of equality is one thing. It is actions on the ground at local level that will determine whether the Barcelona Agreement really means anything.
The fact is that when it comes to disability we are still in the dark ages. Progress has been minimal yet new buildings are popping up here and there that are supposed to be wheelchair accessible. Leader Boards, Clar, Mayo Enterprise Board and any organisation that can get their picture in the paper have issued grants. The sad part about them is when they are officially opened by Cathaoirleachs there is no audit report carried out so that the place complies with the "Building Regulations 2000, Technical Guidance Document M, access for People with Disabilities".
I put it to all Local Authorities across the county publish a list of actions each has taken to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities since signing up to the international Barcelona Agreement. And it is up to you; the local representative to exert as much pressure as you can, locally and nationally, to insure that real change for the better begins to happen.
Tourism is missing out on millions of euros annually, because its failure to cater for the needs of the disabled. A survey by the charity Capability, has found that while some tourist offices might be accessible, there is a lack of information about where disabled tourist can visit, stay or eat.
The survey found that while staff, at tourist offices were helpful, less than half could offer useful advice. Disabled visitors are left to hope for the best, the charity warned. It added that not only is it bad for the tourist, it is bad for business.
Many critics in Ireland have called on the tourist trade here to wake up to the fact that disabled tourists are lucrative customers. Research indicates that there are over 37 million people with disability resident in the European Union alone.
That figure pointed to the potential size of the market. For disabled tourists facing into a journey, fear of the unknown is often a key element. Not been aware of the accessibility status of places and venues can easily undermine the will to travel.
Westport has the only tourist Office in Mayo that opens 52 weeks of the year and it itself is not wheelchair friendly; although I have been working with the relevant parties carry out works.
The life of a disabled person such as I is effectively controlled by that of the able bodied world. But what is the right of a disabled person? Are we safe having our lives structured, or can we also leaders of such vital legislation? What is it you, as a person with a disability, want from your life?
Are we not rulers of our destiny, citizens of this state who must insure our right to self-empowerment? People with disabilities are not an election manifesto to be forgotten on the eighth day after the election. We are not a separate legislation but part of the community. If 350,00 people want to be heard, we must make our own noise.
We must seek to empower ourselves, take responsibility, and be politicians, decision makers, doctors, nurses, inventors, and engineers, building designers, teachers, judges, police, priests, farmers and anything between. We are only limited by others’ imaginations and now are the time to ask for what is right.
What’s the point in dressing up and nowhere to go? By this I mean are the pubs, toilets, hotels, swimming pool, cinema, B/Bs, wheelchair taxis, take-away, GAA pitch public toilets and all public buildings accessible to wheelchair users.
We must also be able to welcome our disabled friends from all walks of life into the town. It is a basic right that we are all treated as equals because behind everyone with a disability there is a person.
Disabled people need to talk to non-disabled people. They need to work and participate generally in the normal activities of a full life. In recognising these needs, you are taking the first step towards the acceptance of disabled people as people having a part to play in and a contribution to make to society.
"As people with disabilities, we must also accept the responsibilities that are associated with the ups, as well as the downs, of life." "We do not want to be singled out for special attention, just to be treated as equals and to enjoy the benefits other citizens expect as a right".
"If you have come to help me, then you can go home. But if you see my struggle as part of your own survival then perhaps we can work together.
You got our vote, now I await your reply.
Kindest Regards.
Tom Chambers,
"The Billy Ranch"
Knocknageeha,
Newport,
Co. Mayo,
Monday, May 05, 2008
Re: The Disability Bill 2004 – 2005
This is a letter, from a father to his 11-year-old son, who is disabled.
Dear Mark,
I am writing this letter into the unknown. I know you will never be able to read or understand it, yet it seems like the only thing I can do just now. I lay you in your cot every night, not daring to think of tomorrow, of our future, of your future. But tonight it is different. I have just been at a meeting on the new Disability Bill, and I am troubled more than I have been for a long time, yet you still make me smile, as you have done, through dark days and bright since you were born eleven years ago. Thank you for that.
I am truly at a loss as to why they won’t listen. How is it that you scare them so much? Surely, you can’t walk or talk and you look funny and I know it is hard for them to see you through the distractions of what to them is not "normal". But that’s no excuse. We have been trying to show them for years that you are all there, a whole person – different, but nonetheless whole person – just like them.
A few years ago they - the Government – sought to introduce a Disability Bill. It was withdrawn, because it did not recognise you for the citizen you are. The Government reacted, and for nearly two years a consultation progress ensued. There was hope, they were going to listen to us, they were going to recognise that you have the right to services to access your basic rights. I am not talking about an annual holiday to Lourdes, no, but rather the security that the State would, as it does for all other citizens, do what was necessary to allow you to live out a basic existence, free from fear of being exploited – or worse – ignored, because the money was needed for some other requirement of the State.
Tonight, Mark, I learned that they have not listened. I felt the slap in my face as real as if the hand that delivered it was there. I despair. How can we leave you to these people when our time is gone? I have been in the residential units of your future. They exist today but a few miles from our house, grown adults confined to quarters built for children, nothing to do all day, except to go slowly mad.
We thought that the Bill would cure all that, but no, more of this crazy fear that you will bankrupt the State. Poor Mark, if you only knew what a treat you are. Your life is not to be facilitated without been shackled to "the availability of resources" or the grey notion of practicability. We were not looking for money. We were looking for security. We were not looking for everything now. We knew that it would take time. A slap in the face, that’s what we got. This Bill, supposedly the best thing to happen for people with disabilities since the foundation of the State, is 80% to do with the State running away and the balance a flawed attempt to give a little something.
Mark, I know you can’t be angry, nor can you despair; you don’t know how, but I do – I do, I am terrified that you will end up in a state of fear like so many before you.
Sleep well, my little man. Tomorrow we will try again.
Your Dad.
Tom Chambers
"The Billy Ranch"
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
.
This is a letter, from a father to his 11-year-old son, who is disabled.
Dear Mark,
I am writing this letter into the unknown. I know you will never be able to read or understand it, yet it seems like the only thing I can do just now. I lay you in your cot every night, not daring to think of tomorrow, of our future, of your future. But tonight it is different. I have just been at a meeting on the new Disability Bill, and I am troubled more than I have been for a long time, yet you still make me smile, as you have done, through dark days and bright since you were born eleven years ago. Thank you for that.
I am truly at a loss as to why they won’t listen. How is it that you scare them so much? Surely, you can’t walk or talk and you look funny and I know it is hard for them to see you through the distractions of what to them is not "normal". But that’s no excuse. We have been trying to show them for years that you are all there, a whole person – different, but nonetheless whole person – just like them.
A few years ago they - the Government – sought to introduce a Disability Bill. It was withdrawn, because it did not recognise you for the citizen you are. The Government reacted, and for nearly two years a consultation progress ensued. There was hope, they were going to listen to us, they were going to recognise that you have the right to services to access your basic rights. I am not talking about an annual holiday to Lourdes, no, but rather the security that the State would, as it does for all other citizens, do what was necessary to allow you to live out a basic existence, free from fear of being exploited – or worse – ignored, because the money was needed for some other requirement of the State.
Tonight, Mark, I learned that they have not listened. I felt the slap in my face as real as if the hand that delivered it was there. I despair. How can we leave you to these people when our time is gone? I have been in the residential units of your future. They exist today but a few miles from our house, grown adults confined to quarters built for children, nothing to do all day, except to go slowly mad.
We thought that the Bill would cure all that, but no, more of this crazy fear that you will bankrupt the State. Poor Mark, if you only knew what a treat you are. Your life is not to be facilitated without been shackled to "the availability of resources" or the grey notion of practicability. We were not looking for money. We were looking for security. We were not looking for everything now. We knew that it would take time. A slap in the face, that’s what we got. This Bill, supposedly the best thing to happen for people with disabilities since the foundation of the State, is 80% to do with the State running away and the balance a flawed attempt to give a little something.
Mark, I know you can’t be angry, nor can you despair; you don’t know how, but I do – I do, I am terrified that you will end up in a state of fear like so many before you.
Sleep well, my little man. Tomorrow we will try again.
Your Dad.
Tom Chambers
"The Billy Ranch"
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
.
Miracles???
THE MIRACLES IN THE CAR PARK
There are, as they say, patron saints and patron saints. Some famous, some not so much; some outstanding in they’re chosen departments, monopolists of miraculous favours.
St. Anthony for things lost; St. Jude for hopeless cases; St. Blaise for the sore throat; St. Christopher for the traveller-we each of us have our own favourite.
But surely, if there is one who has been ignored, neglected and unknown (as far as I am aware) patron saint of car parks. His identify may be a secret, but his works are the essence of heavenly intervention.
Have you not noticed, those past few weeks, the recurrent miracles played out in the public car parks of town and city? Disabled drivers (for what else can they be) gently manoeuvre their vehicles into the only unoccupied spaces in town, those marked with the wheelchair logo. Minutes later, they can be seen heading off to the shops, agile and able-bodied and fleet of foot, just like you or me, their crutches and Zimmer frames thrown to one side (or somewhere), their wheelchairs no longer needed.
But where is their gratitude? Is there a leper among them to come back and say thanks? You will scan the Thanksgiving small ads all you like, but you will see no mention of thanks to that mild and good saint who has restored their crippled bodies to full and instant health.
The good saint is long used to such ingratitude, and all the better for it. If there is a complaint, it is his blatant discrimination in the matter of which he decides to bestow his great favours on. Invariably, the occupants of the miracle wheelchair spaces are those bearings the distinctive yellow number plates of Northern Ireland or British motorists.
But then it would be churlish to begrudge a visitor the miraculous cure to be found south of the Border. Think of the benefit which-properly marketed-the car-parking miracles would be to the tourist trade.
Respectfully yours,
…………………..
Tom Chambers
"The Billy Ranch"
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
There are, as they say, patron saints and patron saints. Some famous, some not so much; some outstanding in they’re chosen departments, monopolists of miraculous favours.
St. Anthony for things lost; St. Jude for hopeless cases; St. Blaise for the sore throat; St. Christopher for the traveller-we each of us have our own favourite.
But surely, if there is one who has been ignored, neglected and unknown (as far as I am aware) patron saint of car parks. His identify may be a secret, but his works are the essence of heavenly intervention.
Have you not noticed, those past few weeks, the recurrent miracles played out in the public car parks of town and city? Disabled drivers (for what else can they be) gently manoeuvre their vehicles into the only unoccupied spaces in town, those marked with the wheelchair logo. Minutes later, they can be seen heading off to the shops, agile and able-bodied and fleet of foot, just like you or me, their crutches and Zimmer frames thrown to one side (or somewhere), their wheelchairs no longer needed.
But where is their gratitude? Is there a leper among them to come back and say thanks? You will scan the Thanksgiving small ads all you like, but you will see no mention of thanks to that mild and good saint who has restored their crippled bodies to full and instant health.
The good saint is long used to such ingratitude, and all the better for it. If there is a complaint, it is his blatant discrimination in the matter of which he decides to bestow his great favours on. Invariably, the occupants of the miracle wheelchair spaces are those bearings the distinctive yellow number plates of Northern Ireland or British motorists.
But then it would be churlish to begrudge a visitor the miraculous cure to be found south of the Border. Think of the benefit which-properly marketed-the car-parking miracles would be to the tourist trade.
Respectfully yours,
…………………..
Tom Chambers
"The Billy Ranch"
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
From: Cllr Keith Martin
Date: 01/19/06 21:27:44
To: thomas Chambers
Subject: Disability
Tom will you go through this and let me know what changes to make and I will send it into the Mayo News and the Connaught Telegraph.
Thanks
Keith
Disability Issues raised in EU Parliament
In September a delegation of the disabled arrived in Strasbourg at the heart of the EU to lobby MEPs for increased direct funding of the disabled throughout the EU. The trip was organised as the "Strasbourg Freedom Drive" and was seen as an opportunity to empower people with disabilities from all over the European Union states.
Disability campaigner Tom Chambers was among those who travelled out to meet the MEPs, rally outside the Parliament and meet with the European Court of Human Rights. Tom is well known throughout Mayo and further a field as a dedicated campaigner for the rights of those with disabilities and for the provision of disability accessible facilities and buildings.
Tom travelled to Strasbourg to campaign for three key points, the right to independent living, the availability of personal assistants and overseas aid to support the disabled in developing countries.
"What disabled people want is the right to live independently. We don't want institutionalisation we want the government and the EU to develop support that allows the disabled to live their lives as independent citizens within their own communities. We are asking that a European wide policy on independent living that is focused on the individual and we need Personal Assistant services on a progressively implemented basis," Tom explains.
Tom says that also among their calls to the EU was "the right to free movement between EU states is enshrined in the EU treaties however there are clear restrictions on the movement of disabled people as the EU states do not recognise the requirement for portability of independent living supports such as Personal Assistants. We are also anxious as a group that the mistakes of the developed world are not repeated in the developing nations, which are currently developing their own attitudes and systems for their disabled community. That is why we are asking the EU to ensure that its EU overseas Development funding is used to ensure the involvement of organisations of the disabled in the planning and development of aid programmes so we are asking that a percentage of the EU Overseas fund be ring-fenced for projects that recognise the principals of Independent living in these developing nations.
Tom was part of the Irish contingent of the Strasbourg Freedom Drive which was made up from members of disability groups and the disabled from countries such as the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Denmark and newer EU members from eastern Europe.
Tom landed in Strasbourg early in the morning ready to take the campaign to the centre of the EU government full of hope but his first experience was a sign that perhaps the Freedom Drive was going to be a bit bumpy. Tom's taxi from the airport to his hotel cost €48, which he haggled down to €30 only after a heated debate. Arriving at last Tom felt that the hostel was a bit austere but the beds were tidy and neat. This was a lot more than could be said for the hostel's only disabled toilet. Complaints by Tom and his fellow travellers lead to a new seat being put on the facility proving to Tom that even while attending to the big issues, disability campaigning starts and finishes with the small details that make life liveable for the disabled.
Morale improved, Tom explains, as "that evening was a time to gather thoughts and get to know the others who were staying in the hostel as they were coming into the Hostel at all hours of the night and the next day. I must say the Barbaque on Monday night was great fun. It was nice to see people from other countries coming and mixing together. The Danes had specially designed tee shirts for all of us. It was great to hear them all singing Irish songs and the craic on those first two days was 90 and we all agreed it was a good start to the campaign."
"Tuesday morning was the start of the campaign proper and we set off to meet our respective MEPs. We got a Tram, which was completely accessible and fast right to the Parliament buildings, and were escorted to the Staff canteen where we meet with our representatives in Europe. There was a discussion but it was brief and we felt a little disappointed with the outcome but we had made our points to those who counted. Then it was back to the hostel for another social, which kicked off at 7pm.
"It was a long day on Wednesday as it was the day we marched to the Parliament Buildings. As our hostel was 10 miles away we had to start early and caught a Tram at 9am to bring us to the meeting point from which we, the disabled from many countries, would walk together as a group. So we set off for our two mile walk to the buildings and were surrounded by a police escort all they way as we shouted and chanted in English, French and a few other languages, there was even an outbreak of Rebel songs on the march.
"We got to the Parliament building at 12.30 where there were interviewers waiting to talk to the groups and there was even a television crew from Norway. Unfortunately there was no one from the Irish media there. People were looking out from the Parliament Buildings and from the street to see who and what was causing all the fuss. Now we had made an impact we had to wait until 5pm for our meeting with the EU's special Disability Intergroup, which is the assigned committee of the MEPs, which deals with disability issues. So while many of us were waiting we explored the local area including a market that sold everything from cars to needles.
"The Disability Intergroup was chaired by a UK MEP Richard Howitt and he welcomed us and gave us the opportunity to ask questions. We were frank in our complaints and in raising the issues that had brought us as a group all the way to Strasbourg. Then as we finished a group of 6 girls let loose singing, "We shall overcome" which caused a bit of a stir. Mr Howitt said we were the first group to ever sing in the Parliament and he thanked us for staging our protest in a sociable manner and wished us the best of luck while he committed himself and his committee to doing their best to achieve the goals we had set for them.
"Leaving the Parliament we were a bit distressed to notice how inaccessible it actually is. Its lifts are too small for wheelchairs and it is a maze for anyone with an impairment who is trying to leave the building. As Ireland were playing an international soccer match we moved on to a pub to watch it and we happened to pick the same pub as several Irish MEPs but despite having spoken to us earlier on they choose not to come over and watch the match with us. In the end Ireland lost and we were a bit despondent that evening.
"Thursday was the last day and we travelled into the city once again to meet with the European Court were we were met by a representative of the courts from Ireland and he gave us a talk on what the courts do He explained that on Tuesday a woman from Ireland had brought an action against the government in the court. Then it was back to the Hostel for the end of campaign party where a late night of craic, ceol, food and drink was had by all until the wee hours."
Tom says he enjoyed the trip and feels he and the others made their point even if the reaction from the Irish MEPs was a bit disappointing. Tom says he would go again if needed but "not without a Personal Assistant. It was a huge task to take on all on my own and I had a terrible time travelling as a disabled person on my own. I still bear the scars!
"On the return trip they took my wheelchair off me at De Gaulle airport. I was left on a hard chair holding on to a metal bar to stop me falling off. I was left like this for two hours and had to ask some passing Americans for some water. It was like a form of torture but worse was to come. The chair they then gave me was not suitable for the plane and I had to explain that four men would be needed to lift me into a chair. They called the pilot down to supervise it but they had no training and actually did me harm when my legs went into spasm while being lifted over into me seat on the plane, I hit off other seats ripping my left shin and bursting one of my big toes open. Then to add insult to injury when we landed at Dublin the sides of my wheelchair and gone missing. Later I got a call to say the sides were found in Gatwick airport and airport that I hadn't even been too!"
"Despite this, I am not sorry I went. We put it to the MEPs that we want 5% of Structural funds and we got commitments to that from Mr Howitt. There was a record of everything that was done and said and it is up to them to fulfil the promises because if they don't, like the Terminator, "I'll be back and there will be many, many more with me!"
Date: 01/19/06 21:27:44
To: thomas Chambers
Subject: Disability
Tom will you go through this and let me know what changes to make and I will send it into the Mayo News and the Connaught Telegraph.
Thanks
Keith
Disability Issues raised in EU Parliament
In September a delegation of the disabled arrived in Strasbourg at the heart of the EU to lobby MEPs for increased direct funding of the disabled throughout the EU. The trip was organised as the "Strasbourg Freedom Drive" and was seen as an opportunity to empower people with disabilities from all over the European Union states.
Disability campaigner Tom Chambers was among those who travelled out to meet the MEPs, rally outside the Parliament and meet with the European Court of Human Rights. Tom is well known throughout Mayo and further a field as a dedicated campaigner for the rights of those with disabilities and for the provision of disability accessible facilities and buildings.
Tom travelled to Strasbourg to campaign for three key points, the right to independent living, the availability of personal assistants and overseas aid to support the disabled in developing countries.
"What disabled people want is the right to live independently. We don't want institutionalisation we want the government and the EU to develop support that allows the disabled to live their lives as independent citizens within their own communities. We are asking that a European wide policy on independent living that is focused on the individual and we need Personal Assistant services on a progressively implemented basis," Tom explains.
Tom says that also among their calls to the EU was "the right to free movement between EU states is enshrined in the EU treaties however there are clear restrictions on the movement of disabled people as the EU states do not recognise the requirement for portability of independent living supports such as Personal Assistants. We are also anxious as a group that the mistakes of the developed world are not repeated in the developing nations, which are currently developing their own attitudes and systems for their disabled community. That is why we are asking the EU to ensure that its EU overseas Development funding is used to ensure the involvement of organisations of the disabled in the planning and development of aid programmes so we are asking that a percentage of the EU Overseas fund be ring-fenced for projects that recognise the principals of Independent living in these developing nations.
Tom was part of the Irish contingent of the Strasbourg Freedom Drive which was made up from members of disability groups and the disabled from countries such as the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Denmark and newer EU members from eastern Europe.
Tom landed in Strasbourg early in the morning ready to take the campaign to the centre of the EU government full of hope but his first experience was a sign that perhaps the Freedom Drive was going to be a bit bumpy. Tom's taxi from the airport to his hotel cost €48, which he haggled down to €30 only after a heated debate. Arriving at last Tom felt that the hostel was a bit austere but the beds were tidy and neat. This was a lot more than could be said for the hostel's only disabled toilet. Complaints by Tom and his fellow travellers lead to a new seat being put on the facility proving to Tom that even while attending to the big issues, disability campaigning starts and finishes with the small details that make life liveable for the disabled.
Morale improved, Tom explains, as "that evening was a time to gather thoughts and get to know the others who were staying in the hostel as they were coming into the Hostel at all hours of the night and the next day. I must say the Barbaque on Monday night was great fun. It was nice to see people from other countries coming and mixing together. The Danes had specially designed tee shirts for all of us. It was great to hear them all singing Irish songs and the craic on those first two days was 90 and we all agreed it was a good start to the campaign."
"Tuesday morning was the start of the campaign proper and we set off to meet our respective MEPs. We got a Tram, which was completely accessible and fast right to the Parliament buildings, and were escorted to the Staff canteen where we meet with our representatives in Europe. There was a discussion but it was brief and we felt a little disappointed with the outcome but we had made our points to those who counted. Then it was back to the hostel for another social, which kicked off at 7pm.
"It was a long day on Wednesday as it was the day we marched to the Parliament Buildings. As our hostel was 10 miles away we had to start early and caught a Tram at 9am to bring us to the meeting point from which we, the disabled from many countries, would walk together as a group. So we set off for our two mile walk to the buildings and were surrounded by a police escort all they way as we shouted and chanted in English, French and a few other languages, there was even an outbreak of Rebel songs on the march.
"We got to the Parliament building at 12.30 where there were interviewers waiting to talk to the groups and there was even a television crew from Norway. Unfortunately there was no one from the Irish media there. People were looking out from the Parliament Buildings and from the street to see who and what was causing all the fuss. Now we had made an impact we had to wait until 5pm for our meeting with the EU's special Disability Intergroup, which is the assigned committee of the MEPs, which deals with disability issues. So while many of us were waiting we explored the local area including a market that sold everything from cars to needles.
"The Disability Intergroup was chaired by a UK MEP Richard Howitt and he welcomed us and gave us the opportunity to ask questions. We were frank in our complaints and in raising the issues that had brought us as a group all the way to Strasbourg. Then as we finished a group of 6 girls let loose singing, "We shall overcome" which caused a bit of a stir. Mr Howitt said we were the first group to ever sing in the Parliament and he thanked us for staging our protest in a sociable manner and wished us the best of luck while he committed himself and his committee to doing their best to achieve the goals we had set for them.
"Leaving the Parliament we were a bit distressed to notice how inaccessible it actually is. Its lifts are too small for wheelchairs and it is a maze for anyone with an impairment who is trying to leave the building. As Ireland were playing an international soccer match we moved on to a pub to watch it and we happened to pick the same pub as several Irish MEPs but despite having spoken to us earlier on they choose not to come over and watch the match with us. In the end Ireland lost and we were a bit despondent that evening.
"Thursday was the last day and we travelled into the city once again to meet with the European Court were we were met by a representative of the courts from Ireland and he gave us a talk on what the courts do He explained that on Tuesday a woman from Ireland had brought an action against the government in the court. Then it was back to the Hostel for the end of campaign party where a late night of craic, ceol, food and drink was had by all until the wee hours."
Tom says he enjoyed the trip and feels he and the others made their point even if the reaction from the Irish MEPs was a bit disappointing. Tom says he would go again if needed but "not without a Personal Assistant. It was a huge task to take on all on my own and I had a terrible time travelling as a disabled person on my own. I still bear the scars!
"On the return trip they took my wheelchair off me at De Gaulle airport. I was left on a hard chair holding on to a metal bar to stop me falling off. I was left like this for two hours and had to ask some passing Americans for some water. It was like a form of torture but worse was to come. The chair they then gave me was not suitable for the plane and I had to explain that four men would be needed to lift me into a chair. They called the pilot down to supervise it but they had no training and actually did me harm when my legs went into spasm while being lifted over into me seat on the plane, I hit off other seats ripping my left shin and bursting one of my big toes open. Then to add insult to injury when we landed at Dublin the sides of my wheelchair and gone missing. Later I got a call to say the sides were found in Gatwick airport and airport that I hadn't even been too!"
"Despite this, I am not sorry I went. We put it to the MEPs that we want 5% of Structural funds and we got commitments to that from Mr Howitt. There was a record of everything that was done and said and it is up to them to fulfil the promises because if they don't, like the Terminator, "I'll be back and there will be many, many more with me!"
Why do buildings need to be accessible?
It is a fundamental right for everyone to be able to participate fully within society and buildings play an important role in making a society inclusive (UN Standard Rules on the Equalisation of Opportunity for persons with Disabilities, 1993; Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities, 1996; Department of Taoiseach, 2000). By drawing on comparable international figures, it is estimated that in Ireland the proportion of the population with disabilities is approximately 10% (Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities, 1996). All environments should be arranged in such a way that allows everyone, equally, to function in the most independent way possible
What is Universal Accessibility?
Universal accessibility is a key concept that states that all environments should be accessible by everyone, regardless of ability. Everybody is different and there is no 'average' person. As a result universal accessibility will benefit all because people with disabilities, people of small or tall stature, parents with buggies, delivery persons and so forth will have greater access to the built and external environments.
What is Universal Accessibility?
Universal accessibility is a key concept that states that all environments should be accessible by everyone, regardless of ability. Everybody is different and there is no 'average' person. As a result universal accessibility will benefit all because people with disabilities, people of small or tall stature, parents with buggies, delivery persons and so forth will have greater access to the built and external environments.
What is the role of the access officer, buildings control officer and disability liaison officer in local authorities?
The Access Officer is responsible for coordinating and promoting access activities in his/her local area. The Access Officer provides local access groups with training, and advice.
The Building Control Officer is responsible for carrying out inspections of buildings under construction and enforcement of the Building Control Act, 1990. The building control officers are available for discussion on building control matters with building owners and their advisors. The building control officer also pursues complaints made in relation to Building Control issues.
The Disability Liaison Officer has responsibility for overseeing the necessary measures and for forming formal liaison arrangements with FAS, Comhairle and such local agencies, as may be appropriate regarding the employment of people with disabilities in the local Authority service. The Disability Liaison Officer is also responsible for informing employees with disabilities with information and the range of services available to them, keeping in contact with disability organisations and highlight the awareness of job opportunities available in local services, facilitating new staff members integration and supporting the needs of employees with disabilities.
Who has the responsibility in making sure buildings are accessible and comply with regulations?
The Local Authority has an immensely important role both as a Building Control Authority and in its development and maintenance of the external environment. The Local Authority is responsible for ensuring that public and incorporating relevant provisions meet private sector housing needs for people with disabilities, in development plans and housing programmes. Each Local Authority is also responsible for the Disabled Persons Grant in their area. Within the Local Authority there are three main officers who deal with issues regarding accessibility for people with disabilities. These are the Access Officer, the Building Control Officer and the disability liaison officer.
It is the function of the Local Authorities to oversee and monitor enforcement of the building control system, including the regulations. Authorities are empowered to carry out inspections and undertake, where necessary, enforcement action in order to ensure compliance. It is worth noting that there are heavy penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for breaches of the regulations.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for all public sector buildings except for buildings run by the Departments of Defence, Education and Science, Health & Children and Local Authorities who look after their own buildings.
What is the role of the access officer, buildings control officer and disability liaison officer in local authorities?
The Access Officer is responsible for coordinating and promoting access activities in his/her local area. The Access Officer provides local access groups with training, and advice.
The Building Control Officer is responsible for carrying out inspections of buildings under construction and enforcement of the Building Control Act, 1990. The building control officers are available for discussion on building control matters with building owners and their advisors. The building control officer also pursues complaints made in relation to Building Control issues.
The Disability Liaison Officer has responsibility for overseeing the necessary measures and for forming formal liaison arrangements with FAS, Comhairle and such local agencies, as may be appropriate regarding the employment of people with disabilities in the local Authority service. The Disability Liaison Officer is also responsible for informing employees with disabilities with information and the range of services available to them, keeping in contact with disability organisations and highlight the awareness of job opportunities available in local services, facilitating new staff members integration and supporting the needs of employees with disabilities
I require an audit of a building - Who carries out access audits?
While there are a number of architectural firms, disability consultancy services and others who carry out accessibility audits at present, there is no register of access auditors available in Ireland. The NDA does not accredit or specifically recommend any access auditors, however it has established a list of. Auditors nationwide. For further information please contact Eoin O'Herlihy at the NDA on 01-6080400 or your local access group who may be able to provide you with information on access auditors. Remember to find out the qualifications and experience of the firm carrying out your audit. One good way in doing this is to contact previous clients.
What is the Barcelona Declaration and what does it mean for people with disabilities?
The Barcelona Declaration is designed to introduce the concept of "design for all" into the mainstream of Local Authorities. Launched at the International Conference on The City and the Disabled held in Barcelona in 1995, it is a simple but powerful document that enables Local Authorities to introduce measures that make cities, towns and villages accessible for all.
The aim of the Barcelona Declaration Project is to encourage local government to make provision for the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community, which it represents. To date over 78 Councils have adopted the Barcelona Declaration. The Institute for Design and Disability (Institute for Design and Disability, National College of Art and Design, 100 Thomas Street, Dublin 8.Tel: 01-6364383. www.idd.ie) is delivering the project on behalf of the NDA. Further details of the Barcelona Declaration project can be obtained at www.barcelonaproject.ie or from the Barcelona Declaration Project Office, Griffith College, South Circular Road, Dublin 8, Tel. 01-4757563.
What are Lifetime Adaptable Homes?
While part M of the Building Regulations provides for the basic access provision, the concept "Lifetime Adaptable Housing" goes one step further by incorporating in the design the provision for change to a home at a later date without the need for major reconstruction. In the adaptable design of the house, structural and other elements that are difficult to change are designed to anticipate later modification to enable accessibility. For example door openings and corridor dimensions are sufficiently wide to be accessible without later modification
What are the current regulations regarding accessibility of the built environment?
Accessibility of the built environment in Ireland for people with disabilities is controlled by Part M of the Building Regulations (2000) entitled "Access for People with Disabilities". The underlying philosophy of Part M is to ensure that as far as is reasonable and practicable; buildings should be usable by people with disabilities. A Technical Guidance Document for Part M is also provided in three sections, which include access and use, sanitary conveniences and audience and spectator facilities. The first part of section one deals with both buildings other than dwellings and the second part of section one deals solely with dwellings. Areas covered in the document include: approach, access, circulation, hotel and guest rooms and use of facilities in a building.
The building regulations apply to construction of new buildings after 1st January 2001 and any extension work or renovations carried out after this date. In addition, certain parts of the regulations apply to existing buildings where a material change of use takes place. Otherwise, building regulations do not apply to buildings constructed prior to 1st June 1992.
There are also a number of Acts that provide a legislative framework whereby premises and services must ensure that organisations do all that is reasonable to comply with minimum accessibility requirements. These include the Equal Status Act, the Health and Safety Act and the Employment Equality Act.
Who can I contact regarding discrimination or a complaint?
The Equality Authority of Ireland is working towards the elimination of discrimination in a number in a number of areas including employment, in the provision of goods and services, education, property and other opportunities to which the public generally have access. There are nine distinct grounds that the Equality Authority is working on and one of these grounds is disability.The Equality Authority deals with queries in relation to equality and discrimination and the majority of queries and complaints are resolved without involvement of the legal process by an in-house legal service. Also they provide a free confidential information and advisory service to employers, service providers, individuals, trade unions and the legal profession on the implementation of the Employment Equality Act, 1998 and the Equal Status legislation. They can be contacted by telephoning 01-4173333 or on lo-Call 1890 245545 or check out the Equality Authority website on http://www.equality.ie/
It is a fundamental right for everyone to be able to participate fully within society and buildings play an important role in making a society inclusive (UN Standard Rules on the Equalisation of Opportunity for persons with Disabilities, 1993; Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities, 1996; Department of Taoiseach, 2000). By drawing on comparable international figures, it is estimated that in Ireland the proportion of the population with disabilities is approximately 10% (Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities, 1996). All environments should be arranged in such a way that allows everyone, equally, to function in the most independent way possible
What is Universal Accessibility?
Universal accessibility is a key concept that states that all environments should be accessible by everyone, regardless of ability. Everybody is different and there is no 'average' person. As a result universal accessibility will benefit all because people with disabilities, people of small or tall stature, parents with buggies, delivery persons and so forth will have greater access to the built and external environments.
What is Universal Accessibility?
Universal accessibility is a key concept that states that all environments should be accessible by everyone, regardless of ability. Everybody is different and there is no 'average' person. As a result universal accessibility will benefit all because people with disabilities, people of small or tall stature, parents with buggies, delivery persons and so forth will have greater access to the built and external environments.
What is the role of the access officer, buildings control officer and disability liaison officer in local authorities?
The Access Officer is responsible for coordinating and promoting access activities in his/her local area. The Access Officer provides local access groups with training, and advice.
The Building Control Officer is responsible for carrying out inspections of buildings under construction and enforcement of the Building Control Act, 1990. The building control officers are available for discussion on building control matters with building owners and their advisors. The building control officer also pursues complaints made in relation to Building Control issues.
The Disability Liaison Officer has responsibility for overseeing the necessary measures and for forming formal liaison arrangements with FAS, Comhairle and such local agencies, as may be appropriate regarding the employment of people with disabilities in the local Authority service. The Disability Liaison Officer is also responsible for informing employees with disabilities with information and the range of services available to them, keeping in contact with disability organisations and highlight the awareness of job opportunities available in local services, facilitating new staff members integration and supporting the needs of employees with disabilities.
Who has the responsibility in making sure buildings are accessible and comply with regulations?
The Local Authority has an immensely important role both as a Building Control Authority and in its development and maintenance of the external environment. The Local Authority is responsible for ensuring that public and incorporating relevant provisions meet private sector housing needs for people with disabilities, in development plans and housing programmes. Each Local Authority is also responsible for the Disabled Persons Grant in their area. Within the Local Authority there are three main officers who deal with issues regarding accessibility for people with disabilities. These are the Access Officer, the Building Control Officer and the disability liaison officer.
It is the function of the Local Authorities to oversee and monitor enforcement of the building control system, including the regulations. Authorities are empowered to carry out inspections and undertake, where necessary, enforcement action in order to ensure compliance. It is worth noting that there are heavy penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for breaches of the regulations.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for all public sector buildings except for buildings run by the Departments of Defence, Education and Science, Health & Children and Local Authorities who look after their own buildings.
What is the role of the access officer, buildings control officer and disability liaison officer in local authorities?
The Access Officer is responsible for coordinating and promoting access activities in his/her local area. The Access Officer provides local access groups with training, and advice.
The Building Control Officer is responsible for carrying out inspections of buildings under construction and enforcement of the Building Control Act, 1990. The building control officers are available for discussion on building control matters with building owners and their advisors. The building control officer also pursues complaints made in relation to Building Control issues.
The Disability Liaison Officer has responsibility for overseeing the necessary measures and for forming formal liaison arrangements with FAS, Comhairle and such local agencies, as may be appropriate regarding the employment of people with disabilities in the local Authority service. The Disability Liaison Officer is also responsible for informing employees with disabilities with information and the range of services available to them, keeping in contact with disability organisations and highlight the awareness of job opportunities available in local services, facilitating new staff members integration and supporting the needs of employees with disabilities
I require an audit of a building - Who carries out access audits?
While there are a number of architectural firms, disability consultancy services and others who carry out accessibility audits at present, there is no register of access auditors available in Ireland. The NDA does not accredit or specifically recommend any access auditors, however it has established a list of. Auditors nationwide. For further information please contact Eoin O'Herlihy at the NDA on 01-6080400 or your local access group who may be able to provide you with information on access auditors. Remember to find out the qualifications and experience of the firm carrying out your audit. One good way in doing this is to contact previous clients.
What is the Barcelona Declaration and what does it mean for people with disabilities?
The Barcelona Declaration is designed to introduce the concept of "design for all" into the mainstream of Local Authorities. Launched at the International Conference on The City and the Disabled held in Barcelona in 1995, it is a simple but powerful document that enables Local Authorities to introduce measures that make cities, towns and villages accessible for all.
The aim of the Barcelona Declaration Project is to encourage local government to make provision for the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community, which it represents. To date over 78 Councils have adopted the Barcelona Declaration. The Institute for Design and Disability (Institute for Design and Disability, National College of Art and Design, 100 Thomas Street, Dublin 8.Tel: 01-6364383. www.idd.ie) is delivering the project on behalf of the NDA. Further details of the Barcelona Declaration project can be obtained at www.barcelonaproject.ie or from the Barcelona Declaration Project Office, Griffith College, South Circular Road, Dublin 8, Tel. 01-4757563.
What are Lifetime Adaptable Homes?
While part M of the Building Regulations provides for the basic access provision, the concept "Lifetime Adaptable Housing" goes one step further by incorporating in the design the provision for change to a home at a later date without the need for major reconstruction. In the adaptable design of the house, structural and other elements that are difficult to change are designed to anticipate later modification to enable accessibility. For example door openings and corridor dimensions are sufficiently wide to be accessible without later modification
What are the current regulations regarding accessibility of the built environment?
Accessibility of the built environment in Ireland for people with disabilities is controlled by Part M of the Building Regulations (2000) entitled "Access for People with Disabilities". The underlying philosophy of Part M is to ensure that as far as is reasonable and practicable; buildings should be usable by people with disabilities. A Technical Guidance Document for Part M is also provided in three sections, which include access and use, sanitary conveniences and audience and spectator facilities. The first part of section one deals with both buildings other than dwellings and the second part of section one deals solely with dwellings. Areas covered in the document include: approach, access, circulation, hotel and guest rooms and use of facilities in a building.
The building regulations apply to construction of new buildings after 1st January 2001 and any extension work or renovations carried out after this date. In addition, certain parts of the regulations apply to existing buildings where a material change of use takes place. Otherwise, building regulations do not apply to buildings constructed prior to 1st June 1992.
There are also a number of Acts that provide a legislative framework whereby premises and services must ensure that organisations do all that is reasonable to comply with minimum accessibility requirements. These include the Equal Status Act, the Health and Safety Act and the Employment Equality Act.
Who can I contact regarding discrimination or a complaint?
The Equality Authority of Ireland is working towards the elimination of discrimination in a number in a number of areas including employment, in the provision of goods and services, education, property and other opportunities to which the public generally have access. There are nine distinct grounds that the Equality Authority is working on and one of these grounds is disability.The Equality Authority deals with queries in relation to equality and discrimination and the majority of queries and complaints are resolved without involvement of the legal process by an in-house legal service. Also they provide a free confidential information and advisory service to employers, service providers, individuals, trade unions and the legal profession on the implementation of the Employment Equality Act, 1998 and the Equal Status legislation. They can be contacted by telephoning 01-4173333 or on lo-Call 1890 245545 or check out the Equality Authority website on http://www.equality.ie/
Euro airports lift disabled cost
Disabled passengers with all airlines will be guaranteed free assistance at all airports, EU Transport Ministers have agreed. The new law will prevent any dis-crimination to people with a disability, with safety reasons the only exception. The new rules will apply to all airlines, including Ryanair, which fought a case in the UK over whether it or Stansted Airport should pay for the cost of transporting a passenger in a wheelchair through the terminal.
The airline currently imposes a 35 cent levy on all passengers to cover the cost of assistance for disabled passengers. The only condition attached to the law is that passengers requiring a wheelchair must notify the airport 48 hours in advance. Under the new rules, airports must provide the service. At Dublin Airport, for example, a private firm operates the service for most airlines. The move was welco0med by Transport Minister Martin Cullen, who said that there is no opt-out clause.
Disabled passengers with all airlines will be guaranteed free assistance at all airports, EU Transport Ministers have agreed. The new law will prevent any dis-crimination to people with a disability, with safety reasons the only exception. The new rules will apply to all airlines, including Ryanair, which fought a case in the UK over whether it or Stansted Airport should pay for the cost of transporting a passenger in a wheelchair through the terminal.
The airline currently imposes a 35 cent levy on all passengers to cover the cost of assistance for disabled passengers. The only condition attached to the law is that passengers requiring a wheelchair must notify the airport 48 hours in advance. Under the new rules, airports must provide the service. At Dublin Airport, for example, a private firm operates the service for most airlines. The move was welco0med by Transport Minister Martin Cullen, who said that there is no opt-out clause.
BBN MEDIA
TRANSCRIPT
Station: RTE ONE
Programme: PRIMETIME
Date: 08.11.05
Time: 10 mins
Ref: PWC
Presenter: To most, taxpayers' money going to the disability services would seem like money well spent. However, it seems things aren’t that simple. Primetime has exclusively obtained a report of the Controller and Auditor General which reveals a shocking lack of accountability and transparency in the many organisations which are providing services to the disabled. Some of these organisations are getting hundreds of millions in Government money but nobody knows how they’re spending it. Barry O’Kelly has this report.
Catherine Finneran: A beautiful young boy. His needs aren’t extraordinary and we’re an ordinary family but extraordinary demands have been placed on us now.
Brian Cowan, Minister for Finance: I explained that some €2800 million overall would be provided in 2005 specifically for people with disabilities. This represented an increase of €290 million or 11% on the 2004 figure.
Reporter: Almost of one third of this money, more than €900 million went to the so-called non-profit organisations which provide a range of services for disabled people. This funding from the taxpayer typically represents 95% of the core income of these groups. In return, they provide the bulk of the residential and respite care for disabled people in Ireland but where exactly is all this money going?
Catherine Finneran: It hasn’t made any difference in my life and that of the life of my son either. He’s out of a service now so it hasn’t filtered down to the people who really need the services.
Reporter: Keith Finneran is 18. At the moment there isn’t a suitable place for Keith’s needs so his Mum Catherine cares for him full time at their home.
Dr Mark Harrold, Clinical Psychologist: I’m not sure that the Department of Health are getting value for money in many instances and certainly what we know for sure is that despite the huge increase in funding that’s out there or that has happened by the Government, we’re not seeing a commensurate increase in the quality of service because we still have people with no service, we still have people in inappropriate services and we still have families suffering intolerable stress with their vulnerable children.
Reporter: So is the taxpayer getting value for money from the increasingly corporate style disability care organisations? Is anybody keeping an eye on how these vast sums of money are being spent? The answer to that question is that we simply don’t know because incredibly many of these organisations funded by the taxpayer are failing to provide the State with audited financial accounts. Primetime can reveal that one such organisation did not provide audited accounts for five years and was given €288 million in State funding. These are among the extraordinary findings of a new report due to be sent to the Government next week by the State watchdog, the Controller and Auditor General. A draft copy of the report, obtained by Primetime, confirms the worst suspicions of some people in the disability sector. It raises some very worrying questions about value for money and transparency in an area that has received billions in State funding in recent years. The Auditor General found that even when the financial accounts were filed, the State failed to check the level of funding against reported income in thirty-seven of the forty-three groups he examined. One disability service examined by the State watchdog had seen its level of funding increase six fold over a ten-year period while the number of people it cared for had fallen dramatically. In 1994, the Cheshire Home in Ballina looked after forty-five people with disabilities. It received €170,000 in State funding at today’s prices. In 2004 Cheshire was looking after twelve people and getting €960,000 in State funding. We put these findings to the Chief Executive of Cheshire, Mark Blake-Knox.
Mark Blake-Knox: At that time when we took it over, there were two, three, four people sharing bedrooms, probably only the size for one, the staff were being paid very little for what they were doing, considerably less than other people doing similar work in other Cheshire Homes, considerably less than people doing similar work in the town of Ballina so we had a responsibility to two things, one was to remove the quality of the service for the people living there which we have done by reducing the numbers.
Reporter: This here right it’s a report by the C&AG, it’s an extract from it, if you just have a look there. So if you’ve got low dependency people being catered there and the cost per person is €80,000 per year, is that not high?
Mark Blake-Knox: I think it’s again, it’s quite shallow to say they’re low dependency. I don’t know if he’s seen them. They mightn’t need, some people because I know one person who lives there who has substantial physical needs, there are other who don’t but some people have support needs but I think one of the things also is that we have been working with the Health Service Executive to try and look at the costs over the last six to twelve months.
Seamus Greene, National Parents & Siblings Alliance: I think the important issue is this, that service providers are funded totally by the State so it is everybody’s money, it’s taxpayers’ money etc and in that sense it isn’t unreasonable to expect to know exactly what’s happening with that money.
Reporter: The Auditor General’s investigation has uncovered a shocking lack of documentation in the former health board offices which dealt with disability grants. He cited an absence of completed application forms, audited accounts, tax clearance certificate, confirmation of charitable status and evidence of grant approval itself.
Dr Mark Harrold: Well I think the whole idea of voluntary for instance is a misnomer because organisations which are set up now which as so-called voluntary are virtually 100% funded by the State. They are not charities; they are funded by the State but often times the consumers of these services seem to think that they’re accepting grace and favour which is simply not the case.
Reporter: The key place to track funding should be the audited accounts of disability service organisations however, the Auditor General established that the former health boards have not received audited accounts from 25% of the organisations he looked at. The report disclosed that these bodies have received approximately €100 million in that year. The Auditor General noted that the submission of audited financial statements was a condition of funding.
Deirdre Carroll, NAMHI: In Ireland we’re sort of unique I think than other EU countries that particularly for example in the learning disability sector, intellectual disability where I would be familiar with, you would have 80% of services provided to people with disabilities by the voluntary or not for profit sector as some people like to be called now and they provide the service on behalf of the State who will pay them funding to do so. Now it is the HSE who would have the responsibility of entering into arrangements with service providers to provide services for people with disabilities.
Reporter: These arrangements are supposed to be governed by service agreements. However, the Auditor General found that no such agreements had operated last year with groups which had received more than €200 million from the taxpayer and where such service agreements were in place, the Auditor General found many cases where service agreements were not signed until substantially after the commencement of services and funding.
Catherine Finneran: One of my days in town in the summertime, I noticed somebody collecting for people with disabilities. Out of curiosity I approached that person and I said to him, I said, can you tell me what you do with the funds that you raise? He said for people with disabilities and I said well I’ve got a son with special needs, how can I access this? He said to me you go to your post office he said and you can get it so I said no, I’m sorry you don’t get there and because of circumstances I didn’t pursue the question, with a regret now because I feel people with disabilities is exploited in some ways.
Reporter: Six weeks ago Catherine took her son Keith out of a service because she felt it wasn’t appropriate.
Catherine Finneran: The practical realities are an immense… I don’t think I could quantify them for you right now because our lives have completely changed. It’s been difficult for us though as a family because I’ve had to alter my working arrangements and that of his dad as well too to facilitate Keith’s needs. We love to have Keith at home but we’d also love him to able to access a service and to have a life independently of us and I really don’t think that’s a big deal to ask today.
Reporter: In one of the most striking examples of poor financial accountability, the Auditor General revealed that in the case of one significant voluntary body, no audited financial statements had been received without any alteration to funding or any other sanction. This body have received €288 million from the taxpayer over five years.
Deirdre Carroll NAMHI: We have to provide audited accounts every year and we’ve now become a limited company and we have had reams of paper telling me about all my financial obligations so I would be surprised if services haven’t done that and I would hope that they will be doing that.
Reporter: The Auditor General has pointed out that the charity sector is currently unregulated and attention needs to be given to establishing financial reporting norms. Meanwhile the Government says that the charities legislation will not be published until Spring 2006.
John Perry TD, Fine Gael: I think it’s quite disappointing that within Government buildings, within the Taoiseach’s Office since 1999 promised legislation was to bring in to regulate charities and NGOs, to date nothing has happened and I think that it has resulted in, I believe, in non-regulated services which has impacted on the effectiveness and the amount of money that’s allocated and the delivery of services.
Reporter: This story of a shambolic system of funding involving billions of euro of taxpayers’ money will make grim reading for a Government already feeling the heat over value for money scandals. It confirms what many in the disability sector have suspected for a long time.
Dr Mark Harrold: When you have a mix of vulnerable citizens and their families, you have marvellous frontline workers who are prepared to work for less than or around minimum wage then you have vast sums of money which go unaccounted for, I have to say that that is a recipe for difficulties.
Presenter: That report was from Barry O’Kelly.
ENDS
Supplied by BBN Media.
TRANSCRIPT
Station: RTE ONE
Programme: PRIMETIME
Date: 08.11.05
Time: 10 mins
Ref: PWC
Presenter: To most, taxpayers' money going to the disability services would seem like money well spent. However, it seems things aren’t that simple. Primetime has exclusively obtained a report of the Controller and Auditor General which reveals a shocking lack of accountability and transparency in the many organisations which are providing services to the disabled. Some of these organisations are getting hundreds of millions in Government money but nobody knows how they’re spending it. Barry O’Kelly has this report.
Catherine Finneran: A beautiful young boy. His needs aren’t extraordinary and we’re an ordinary family but extraordinary demands have been placed on us now.
Brian Cowan, Minister for Finance: I explained that some €2800 million overall would be provided in 2005 specifically for people with disabilities. This represented an increase of €290 million or 11% on the 2004 figure.
Reporter: Almost of one third of this money, more than €900 million went to the so-called non-profit organisations which provide a range of services for disabled people. This funding from the taxpayer typically represents 95% of the core income of these groups. In return, they provide the bulk of the residential and respite care for disabled people in Ireland but where exactly is all this money going?
Catherine Finneran: It hasn’t made any difference in my life and that of the life of my son either. He’s out of a service now so it hasn’t filtered down to the people who really need the services.
Reporter: Keith Finneran is 18. At the moment there isn’t a suitable place for Keith’s needs so his Mum Catherine cares for him full time at their home.
Dr Mark Harrold, Clinical Psychologist: I’m not sure that the Department of Health are getting value for money in many instances and certainly what we know for sure is that despite the huge increase in funding that’s out there or that has happened by the Government, we’re not seeing a commensurate increase in the quality of service because we still have people with no service, we still have people in inappropriate services and we still have families suffering intolerable stress with their vulnerable children.
Reporter: So is the taxpayer getting value for money from the increasingly corporate style disability care organisations? Is anybody keeping an eye on how these vast sums of money are being spent? The answer to that question is that we simply don’t know because incredibly many of these organisations funded by the taxpayer are failing to provide the State with audited financial accounts. Primetime can reveal that one such organisation did not provide audited accounts for five years and was given €288 million in State funding. These are among the extraordinary findings of a new report due to be sent to the Government next week by the State watchdog, the Controller and Auditor General. A draft copy of the report, obtained by Primetime, confirms the worst suspicions of some people in the disability sector. It raises some very worrying questions about value for money and transparency in an area that has received billions in State funding in recent years. The Auditor General found that even when the financial accounts were filed, the State failed to check the level of funding against reported income in thirty-seven of the forty-three groups he examined. One disability service examined by the State watchdog had seen its level of funding increase six fold over a ten-year period while the number of people it cared for had fallen dramatically. In 1994, the Cheshire Home in Ballina looked after forty-five people with disabilities. It received €170,000 in State funding at today’s prices. In 2004 Cheshire was looking after twelve people and getting €960,000 in State funding. We put these findings to the Chief Executive of Cheshire, Mark Blake-Knox.
Mark Blake-Knox: At that time when we took it over, there were two, three, four people sharing bedrooms, probably only the size for one, the staff were being paid very little for what they were doing, considerably less than other people doing similar work in other Cheshire Homes, considerably less than people doing similar work in the town of Ballina so we had a responsibility to two things, one was to remove the quality of the service for the people living there which we have done by reducing the numbers.
Reporter: This here right it’s a report by the C&AG, it’s an extract from it, if you just have a look there. So if you’ve got low dependency people being catered there and the cost per person is €80,000 per year, is that not high?
Mark Blake-Knox: I think it’s again, it’s quite shallow to say they’re low dependency. I don’t know if he’s seen them. They mightn’t need, some people because I know one person who lives there who has substantial physical needs, there are other who don’t but some people have support needs but I think one of the things also is that we have been working with the Health Service Executive to try and look at the costs over the last six to twelve months.
Seamus Greene, National Parents & Siblings Alliance: I think the important issue is this, that service providers are funded totally by the State so it is everybody’s money, it’s taxpayers’ money etc and in that sense it isn’t unreasonable to expect to know exactly what’s happening with that money.
Reporter: The Auditor General’s investigation has uncovered a shocking lack of documentation in the former health board offices which dealt with disability grants. He cited an absence of completed application forms, audited accounts, tax clearance certificate, confirmation of charitable status and evidence of grant approval itself.
Dr Mark Harrold: Well I think the whole idea of voluntary for instance is a misnomer because organisations which are set up now which as so-called voluntary are virtually 100% funded by the State. They are not charities; they are funded by the State but often times the consumers of these services seem to think that they’re accepting grace and favour which is simply not the case.
Reporter: The key place to track funding should be the audited accounts of disability service organisations however, the Auditor General established that the former health boards have not received audited accounts from 25% of the organisations he looked at. The report disclosed that these bodies have received approximately €100 million in that year. The Auditor General noted that the submission of audited financial statements was a condition of funding.
Deirdre Carroll, NAMHI: In Ireland we’re sort of unique I think than other EU countries that particularly for example in the learning disability sector, intellectual disability where I would be familiar with, you would have 80% of services provided to people with disabilities by the voluntary or not for profit sector as some people like to be called now and they provide the service on behalf of the State who will pay them funding to do so. Now it is the HSE who would have the responsibility of entering into arrangements with service providers to provide services for people with disabilities.
Reporter: These arrangements are supposed to be governed by service agreements. However, the Auditor General found that no such agreements had operated last year with groups which had received more than €200 million from the taxpayer and where such service agreements were in place, the Auditor General found many cases where service agreements were not signed until substantially after the commencement of services and funding.
Catherine Finneran: One of my days in town in the summertime, I noticed somebody collecting for people with disabilities. Out of curiosity I approached that person and I said to him, I said, can you tell me what you do with the funds that you raise? He said for people with disabilities and I said well I’ve got a son with special needs, how can I access this? He said to me you go to your post office he said and you can get it so I said no, I’m sorry you don’t get there and because of circumstances I didn’t pursue the question, with a regret now because I feel people with disabilities is exploited in some ways.
Reporter: Six weeks ago Catherine took her son Keith out of a service because she felt it wasn’t appropriate.
Catherine Finneran: The practical realities are an immense… I don’t think I could quantify them for you right now because our lives have completely changed. It’s been difficult for us though as a family because I’ve had to alter my working arrangements and that of his dad as well too to facilitate Keith’s needs. We love to have Keith at home but we’d also love him to able to access a service and to have a life independently of us and I really don’t think that’s a big deal to ask today.
Reporter: In one of the most striking examples of poor financial accountability, the Auditor General revealed that in the case of one significant voluntary body, no audited financial statements had been received without any alteration to funding or any other sanction. This body have received €288 million from the taxpayer over five years.
Deirdre Carroll NAMHI: We have to provide audited accounts every year and we’ve now become a limited company and we have had reams of paper telling me about all my financial obligations so I would be surprised if services haven’t done that and I would hope that they will be doing that.
Reporter: The Auditor General has pointed out that the charity sector is currently unregulated and attention needs to be given to establishing financial reporting norms. Meanwhile the Government says that the charities legislation will not be published until Spring 2006.
John Perry TD, Fine Gael: I think it’s quite disappointing that within Government buildings, within the Taoiseach’s Office since 1999 promised legislation was to bring in to regulate charities and NGOs, to date nothing has happened and I think that it has resulted in, I believe, in non-regulated services which has impacted on the effectiveness and the amount of money that’s allocated and the delivery of services.
Reporter: This story of a shambolic system of funding involving billions of euro of taxpayers’ money will make grim reading for a Government already feeling the heat over value for money scandals. It confirms what many in the disability sector have suspected for a long time.
Dr Mark Harrold: When you have a mix of vulnerable citizens and their families, you have marvellous frontline workers who are prepared to work for less than or around minimum wage then you have vast sums of money which go unaccounted for, I have to say that that is a recipe for difficulties.
Presenter: That report was from Barry O’Kelly.
ENDS
Supplied by BBN Media.
Mark Rissen
Manager
Ballina Cineplex
Mercey Road
Ballina
Co. Mayo
10th May 2004.
Dear Mark,
Many thanks for letting me have a look at the inside of the Cinema on the 7th April 2004. As you will agree there were a few things that I brought to your attention for wheelchair users.
Here is a list of items that would need attention:
The exterior door bell would need to be located between 900-1100mm from ground level to facilitate wheelchair users.
Many people, particularly those with visual impairments, have difficulty in recognising a see-through door. Where a door is mostly glazed or comprises a single pane of glass, it should be marked permanently within the 1200 – 1500mm range above the floor level, as to indicate its presence visually. The lower 400mm of such doors should, however, be of a solid material, so as to avoid possible damage from wheelchair footplates.
3) A kick panel at the foot of all doors leading to the 3 screens. It would be placed at the foot of each door running the full length of the door 200mm from bottom of door so as to avoid possible damage from wheelchair footplates.
Pull handles should be placed for closing the door placed opposite the door handle beginning at 8 inches from the hinge. Make sure it is about 2 inches wide and 8 inches long to suit everyone.
Some people, including older people who use wheelchairs only some of the time, will want to transfer to a seat. It is a management issue that the wheelchair is kept nearby and delivered if requested at an interval and at the end of a show.
Numbers and proportions of wheelchair accessible seats depend on the capacity of a particular venue. In premises with less than 1000 seats, six wheelchair accessible seats, or 1/50th of the capacity, whichever is the greater, are required by regulation. Where there are a number of venues in a particular building, e.g. a multi-screen cinema, the standards apply to each venue independently of the others. A person with a guide dog will need additional space beside the seat for the dog.
Disabled Parking. The following guidelines are: Minimum one space of appropriate dimensions in every 25 standard spaces, minimum three in 25-50 standard spaces, minimum five in 50-100 standard spaces.
Counters should facilitate both people standing and those in wheelchairs. A minimum 900m long section of counter, 750mm over floor level, will facilitate wheelchair users and children.
The design of the Disabled toilet needs alterations.
If you need any further information regarding the above feel free to contact me.
I await a reply.
With kindest regards,
…………………
Tom Chambers,
"The Billy Ranch"
Knocknageeha,
Newport,
Co. Mayo,
Access Officer for PwDI,
Mayo Network,
ID Number 24
Manager
Ballina Cineplex
Mercey Road
Ballina
Co. Mayo
10th May 2004.
Dear Mark,
Many thanks for letting me have a look at the inside of the Cinema on the 7th April 2004. As you will agree there were a few things that I brought to your attention for wheelchair users.
Here is a list of items that would need attention:
The exterior door bell would need to be located between 900-1100mm from ground level to facilitate wheelchair users.
Many people, particularly those with visual impairments, have difficulty in recognising a see-through door. Where a door is mostly glazed or comprises a single pane of glass, it should be marked permanently within the 1200 – 1500mm range above the floor level, as to indicate its presence visually. The lower 400mm of such doors should, however, be of a solid material, so as to avoid possible damage from wheelchair footplates.
3) A kick panel at the foot of all doors leading to the 3 screens. It would be placed at the foot of each door running the full length of the door 200mm from bottom of door so as to avoid possible damage from wheelchair footplates.
Pull handles should be placed for closing the door placed opposite the door handle beginning at 8 inches from the hinge. Make sure it is about 2 inches wide and 8 inches long to suit everyone.
Some people, including older people who use wheelchairs only some of the time, will want to transfer to a seat. It is a management issue that the wheelchair is kept nearby and delivered if requested at an interval and at the end of a show.
Numbers and proportions of wheelchair accessible seats depend on the capacity of a particular venue. In premises with less than 1000 seats, six wheelchair accessible seats, or 1/50th of the capacity, whichever is the greater, are required by regulation. Where there are a number of venues in a particular building, e.g. a multi-screen cinema, the standards apply to each venue independently of the others. A person with a guide dog will need additional space beside the seat for the dog.
Disabled Parking. The following guidelines are: Minimum one space of appropriate dimensions in every 25 standard spaces, minimum three in 25-50 standard spaces, minimum five in 50-100 standard spaces.
Counters should facilitate both people standing and those in wheelchairs. A minimum 900m long section of counter, 750mm over floor level, will facilitate wheelchair users and children.
The design of the Disabled toilet needs alterations.
If you need any further information regarding the above feel free to contact me.
I await a reply.
With kindest regards,
…………………
Tom Chambers,
"The Billy Ranch"
Knocknageeha,
Newport,
Co. Mayo,
Access Officer for PwDI,
Mayo Network,
ID Number 24
How accessible is your town?
Below is a list of buildings that we all need to use in everyday life, but can you access these buildings in your town by yourself?
Post Office Public toilets
Banks Cinema
Public Houses Take-away’s
Hotels Barbers
Newsagents Train station
Chemist Restaurant’s
Church Citizens Information Centre
Doctor’s Surgery Night- clubs
Dentist’s Surgery Bus Station
Health Centre Taxi’s
Do they provide disabled parking facilities?
Do they have a disabled toilet where required?
Is the toilet of adequate size?
Do they provide a low counter where required?
Are the pavements dished sufficiently?
Do the Hotel’s provide a special adapted room for people with a disability?
Are the taxis in your area wheel chair accessible?
Do you have to book in advance? If so, how far in advance?
Below is a list of buildings that we all need to use in everyday life, but can you access these buildings in your town by yourself?
Post Office Public toilets
Banks Cinema
Public Houses Take-away’s
Hotels Barbers
Newsagents Train station
Chemist Restaurant’s
Church Citizens Information Centre
Doctor’s Surgery Night- clubs
Dentist’s Surgery Bus Station
Health Centre Taxi’s
Do they provide disabled parking facilities?
Do they have a disabled toilet where required?
Is the toilet of adequate size?
Do they provide a low counter where required?
Are the pavements dished sufficiently?
Do the Hotel’s provide a special adapted room for people with a disability?
Are the taxis in your area wheel chair accessible?
Do you have to book in advance? If so, how far in advance?
Cllr. Henry Kenny
Straide Road
Ballyvary
Castlebar
Co. Mayo
24th August 2006
Attention for Mr Kenny,
I am writing to bring to your attention the unacceptable state of affairs obtaining in one of the areas you purport to represent, namely Ballyvary.
Recently on my way from Dublin I passed through Ballyvary to assess how accessible the town is for the less privileged . In my assessment I tried to pay a visit to the local post office, vet office, chip shop, supermarket and local pub. I noticed to my utter dismay and disgust the absence of any access ramps on the entire street for wheelchair users.
As the elected area representative, I am sure you know that it your primary responsibility to ensure and spearhead development in your area. I am also sure you are aware that it is also in compliance of the Barcelona declaration to provide access to the disabled. So it is now not just a moral and electoral obligation, but a legal one as well.
As one who is bound to represent the people of the whole of County Mayo, I feel that so far, you have failed in your duty to put them on your agenda. I shall be making contact with other representatives and that will include the County Manager, Mr. Des Mahon.
You have totally ignored the plea from the disability groups that you promised in your inaugural speech when you accepted the chain in the Council Chamber last June.
I await a reply
Yours Truly.
__________________
Tom Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo.
Straide Road
Ballyvary
Castlebar
Co. Mayo
24th August 2006
Attention for Mr Kenny,
I am writing to bring to your attention the unacceptable state of affairs obtaining in one of the areas you purport to represent, namely Ballyvary.
Recently on my way from Dublin I passed through Ballyvary to assess how accessible the town is for the less privileged . In my assessment I tried to pay a visit to the local post office, vet office, chip shop, supermarket and local pub. I noticed to my utter dismay and disgust the absence of any access ramps on the entire street for wheelchair users.
As the elected area representative, I am sure you know that it your primary responsibility to ensure and spearhead development in your area. I am also sure you are aware that it is also in compliance of the Barcelona declaration to provide access to the disabled. So it is now not just a moral and electoral obligation, but a legal one as well.
As one who is bound to represent the people of the whole of County Mayo, I feel that so far, you have failed in your duty to put them on your agenda. I shall be making contact with other representatives and that will include the County Manager, Mr. Des Mahon.
You have totally ignored the plea from the disability groups that you promised in your inaugural speech when you accepted the chain in the Council Chamber last June.
I await a reply
Yours Truly.
__________________
Tom Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Young Peoples Sport for All Day in Westport Beautiful autumn weather assisted with the success of the Newport - Westport; Sport for all Day, held at the Sacred Heart Convent in Westport on Saturday 14th October. This event was designed to give young people of all ages an opportunity to sample and participate in active sporting activities, which they would perhaps not normally have the chance to try. Tereasa McGuire, Cathaoirleach Westport Town Council, cut the red ribbon to start the proceedings, assisted by organiser Tom Chambers and Una Kearns, also in attendance was Cllr s Martin Keane and Dave Keating, along with Charles Lambert, Sports Co-ordinator, Mayo Sports Partnership. Sporting variety was the order of the day with both outdoor and indoor activity available, and eager youthful participation in basketball, boxing and indoor soccer was evident right from the start of proceedings Also inside was an indoor bowling green and Cllr Keane and Charles Lambert were Introduced to the mysteries of throwing the jack and rolling the bowls. For the less adventurous there was face painting , music and a plentiful supply of tea, soft drinks, sweets and sandwiches, all provided by the organisers. Many local parents also attended the day and stayed on to support and assist even participating in a mum’s egg and spoon race, later in the afternoon. In a thought provoking innovation, young able bodied volunteers were given wheelchairs and shown how to operate them, while participating in sport, by safety co-ordinator Bill Hopkins. They also had the chance to negotiate exit and entrance to buildings and elevated ramps. While this was light-hearted fun, they went away with a real sense of how difficult and demanding sport and life in general can be to someone who has no option but to live life in a wheelchair. Outside the sports were racing, hop skip and jump and the almost obligatory egg (actually an onion) and spoon race. All the participants also had the opportunity in the afternoon to travel by mini bus across town to the Westport Leisure Park swimming pool for aquatic fun and games under the watchful supervision of experienced volunteers. This was a particularly useful activity as it was pointed out by Tom Chambers that living on the seaboard and surrounded by lakes and rivers; it is incumbent on us all to ensure our young people are taught how to swim. Cathal O’Connor, Rory Eade and Jerome Gannon gave an impressive display of boxing skills and the Westport Order of Malta, headed up by Patricia Gibbons and ably assisted by Shane McGuire were on hand to deal with any minor bumps and bruises. To round off the day the Wyatt Hotel hosted an evening function for the organisers and friends and any proceeds raised after expenses are going to the Special Olympics Fund, which is especially dear to organised Tom Chambers’s heart. Newport man, Tom Chambers, was delighted at the enthusiasm of the young people that attended. He was fulsome in his praise of the volunteers and committee members, whose hard work made the whole event possible. He also thanked the sponsors of the day along with the Sacred Heart School and Leisure Park management for making their venues available.
TOURISM FAILING PEOPLE
WITH DISABILITIES
Tourism is missing out on millions or euros annually, because its failure to cater for the needs of the disabled. A survey carried out by the University of Ulster, “School of Built Environment” This can affect about 70% of the population. If one takes into factor the population of Ireland alone, the disabled community together with their families, friends and relations would be affected it also found out that while some tourist offices might be accessible, there is a lack of information about where disabled tourism can visit, stay or eat. The survey also found that while staff, at tourist offices was helpful, less than half could offer useful advice. Disabled visitors are left to hope for the best, the survey warned, it added that not only is it bad for the tourism, it is bad for business.
Many critics in Westport including myself have called on the tourist trade here to wake up to the fact that disabled tourists are lucrative customers. Research indicates that there are over 37 million people with disability resident in the European Union
(E.U.) alone. That figure pointed to the potential size of the market. For disabled tourists facing into a journey, fear of the unknown is often a key element. Not been aware of the accessibility status of places and venues can easily undermine the will to travel.
The life of a disabled person such as I is effectively controlled by that of the able-bodied world. But what is the right of a disabled person? Are we safe having our lives structured, or can we also be leaders of such vital legislation? For tourists with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairment, what has a town like Westport, having the title of “Tidiest Town in Ireland” to offer the disabled. What is the point in dressing up and nowhere to go? By this I mean are the pubs, hotels, toilets , hotels, swimming pool, cinemas, public library, post office, B/Bs, restaurants, takeaways, GAA pitches heritage centre, parking facilities for disabled drivers/passengers and the public toilets.
Are the streets of Westport safe enough for disabled, especially when we read in the papers that owing to the state of some, Councillors have threatened to carry out repairs with their own monies? This is despite commitments following the DISABILITY ACT 2005, which is over one and a half years old.
As Westport Tourist Office is the only Tourist Office in Co. Mayo open the whole year, yet it is totally accessible for people with disabilities despite getting a meeting with Simon Wall, Local Arithmetic and Eva Farrell,
.As Bertie Aherne states, the country the country is awash with money, and his spokespersons are advising that everything is wonderful, the economy is booming we are not short of nothing.
Have a person with a disability tried to book a room with a level access shower? Not easy is it. You call a hotel with a wheelchair sigh in the guide and the conversation goes something like this: Do you have accessible rooms. If the answer is yes, do they have level access showers, the answer will range from “What do you mean to? Well it does have a ledge” to “No, but we do have baths and the room is wheelchair friendly. If you are lucky enough to get a positive reply and there is a level access shower the next question you might ask is “Do they have a shower chair. Silence for a minute, then this leads to another “What do you mean”. How difficult is it to understand that people who can’t walk or stand needs something to sit on in a shower, preferably a shower chair. And how are you supposed to get into a bath when your legs can’t work. You will travel the length and breadth of this country looking for a hotel with both a level access shower and a shower wheelchair.
So I decided to contact Failte Ireland which administers what it calls the Validated Accessible Scheme (VAS). This scheme is designed to encourage hotels to be more accessible to people with disabilities. VAS has 4 categories ranging from category 1, which is for people with enough mobility to walk into a room, to category 4, where the guest requires assistance to shower, etc.
Failte Ireland informed me that 29 Irish hotels have registered with the scheme, with only 6 qualifying for category 4. The Irish Federation has a membership of approx. 800 hotels. This would mean that at most 3.6% of their hotels are in the scheme and only 0.75% is qualified for category 4 an abysmal performance by our failte (welcoming) industry.
Why is the performance not better? Well first of all it’s a commercial issue. If a hotel doesn’t need to spend what ever little extra it costs to build a wheelchair friendly room why should they bother. But hold it there - surely we have legislation which requires hotels to provide specific facilities for the disabled. Answer to that is yes and no. “Legalisation???
I seem to have stumbled across one of the great Irish secrets. We don’t have adequate hotel facilities for the disabled. We don’t have enforcement legislation inspection or validation scheme to ensure tourists are given correct information. Once again the disabled have to look after themselves. The shame of it is that this so called successful society of ours simply does not have an interest in catering for people with disabilities because there isn’t a quick buck in it.
WITH DISABILITIES
Tourism is missing out on millions or euros annually, because its failure to cater for the needs of the disabled. A survey carried out by the University of Ulster, “School of Built Environment” This can affect about 70% of the population. If one takes into factor the population of Ireland alone, the disabled community together with their families, friends and relations would be affected it also found out that while some tourist offices might be accessible, there is a lack of information about where disabled tourism can visit, stay or eat. The survey also found that while staff, at tourist offices was helpful, less than half could offer useful advice. Disabled visitors are left to hope for the best, the survey warned, it added that not only is it bad for the tourism, it is bad for business.
Many critics in Westport including myself have called on the tourist trade here to wake up to the fact that disabled tourists are lucrative customers. Research indicates that there are over 37 million people with disability resident in the European Union
(E.U.) alone. That figure pointed to the potential size of the market. For disabled tourists facing into a journey, fear of the unknown is often a key element. Not been aware of the accessibility status of places and venues can easily undermine the will to travel.
The life of a disabled person such as I is effectively controlled by that of the able-bodied world. But what is the right of a disabled person? Are we safe having our lives structured, or can we also be leaders of such vital legislation? For tourists with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairment, what has a town like Westport, having the title of “Tidiest Town in Ireland” to offer the disabled. What is the point in dressing up and nowhere to go? By this I mean are the pubs, hotels, toilets , hotels, swimming pool, cinemas, public library, post office, B/Bs, restaurants, takeaways, GAA pitches heritage centre, parking facilities for disabled drivers/passengers and the public toilets.
Are the streets of Westport safe enough for disabled, especially when we read in the papers that owing to the state of some, Councillors have threatened to carry out repairs with their own monies? This is despite commitments following the DISABILITY ACT 2005, which is over one and a half years old.
As Westport Tourist Office is the only Tourist Office in Co. Mayo open the whole year, yet it is totally accessible for people with disabilities despite getting a meeting with Simon Wall, Local Arithmetic and Eva Farrell,
.As Bertie Aherne states, the country the country is awash with money, and his spokespersons are advising that everything is wonderful, the economy is booming we are not short of nothing.
Have a person with a disability tried to book a room with a level access shower? Not easy is it. You call a hotel with a wheelchair sigh in the guide and the conversation goes something like this: Do you have accessible rooms. If the answer is yes, do they have level access showers, the answer will range from “What do you mean to? Well it does have a ledge” to “No, but we do have baths and the room is wheelchair friendly. If you are lucky enough to get a positive reply and there is a level access shower the next question you might ask is “Do they have a shower chair. Silence for a minute, then this leads to another “What do you mean”. How difficult is it to understand that people who can’t walk or stand needs something to sit on in a shower, preferably a shower chair. And how are you supposed to get into a bath when your legs can’t work. You will travel the length and breadth of this country looking for a hotel with both a level access shower and a shower wheelchair.
So I decided to contact Failte Ireland which administers what it calls the Validated Accessible Scheme (VAS). This scheme is designed to encourage hotels to be more accessible to people with disabilities. VAS has 4 categories ranging from category 1, which is for people with enough mobility to walk into a room, to category 4, where the guest requires assistance to shower, etc.
Failte Ireland informed me that 29 Irish hotels have registered with the scheme, with only 6 qualifying for category 4. The Irish Federation has a membership of approx. 800 hotels. This would mean that at most 3.6% of their hotels are in the scheme and only 0.75% is qualified for category 4 an abysmal performance by our failte (welcoming) industry.
Why is the performance not better? Well first of all it’s a commercial issue. If a hotel doesn’t need to spend what ever little extra it costs to build a wheelchair friendly room why should they bother. But hold it there - surely we have legislation which requires hotels to provide specific facilities for the disabled. Answer to that is yes and no. “Legalisation???
I seem to have stumbled across one of the great Irish secrets. We don’t have adequate hotel facilities for the disabled. We don’t have enforcement legislation inspection or validation scheme to ensure tourists are given correct information. Once again the disabled have to look after themselves. The shame of it is that this so called successful society of ours simply does not have an interest in catering for people with disabilities because there isn’t a quick buck in it.
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Access all areas
Anton McNulty
Since a car accident in 1981 left him paralysed from the waist down, Tom Chambers has let his life campaigning for the rights of disabled people. While there has been welcome changes a lot more can be done.
IF there’s one phrase that makes Tom Chambers want to pull his hair out, it is; ‘state of the art’. It is used to describe every facility in new developments the length and breadth of the country and is frequently linked with disabled facilities.
For over twenty years, Newport man Tom Chambers has crusaded for the considerations of wheelchair bound people to be taken into account to help make everyday tasks more accessible. Every day, people restricted to wheelchairs face hardships and difficulties when dealing with basic daily tasks. Whether it be posting a letter, going to the shops or crossing a street, there are always obstacles and barriers in their way.
Under the Barcelona Declaration of 1995, local authorities are obliged to promote disability awareness and ensure the rights of disabled people, and establish structures of ongoing consultation between people with disabilities and their representatives. While in theory this is to be welcomed, according to Tom in practice there is little consultation and many of the so-called ‘state of the art’ disabled facilities are flawed. Only last week, he was at a function in a new hotel in Mayo and was left in an embarrassing situation when the disabled toilets were too small for the door to be closed behind him, leaving him without any privacy.
Last year, in his home town of Newport, a project costing Û100,000 was spent on disability access on the streets. It was described as a state of the art ramp and unique to the county in facilitating the disabled. He feels it was anything but state of the art and is not suitable for wheelchairs. He told the council it would not work but they chose to take the word of their engineers, rather than consult the intended service user something which Tom feels is the core to the problem.
“When I heard it was state of the art, I felt like pulling the hair out of my head,” explained Tom. “To describe it as unique to the country in facilitating the disabled is an awful insult to people with disabilities. The chap who was put in charge was a horticulturist for Mayo County Council and he got this job and was acting as engineer, planner and builder. I said to him that the plans were not right, but he went to the engineers who said it complied with the building regulations. Under the building regulations for steep ramps, they are obliged to bring hand rails down twelve inches past the wall, these ones are stopped about twelve inches short. The Û100,000 was supposed to improve the facilities and it has not so far. Even women with prams are trying to use it and they see how inaccessible it can be. But it is things like that that keeps me going.”
There is no doubt in Tom’s mind that a lot of the problems lie with the Town and County Councils and the poor planning they put into dealing with disabled facilities. If he complains he feels he is pushed from pillar to post and believes they are not taking the issue seriously. He explained that an action group was set up Mayo Co. Council, called ‘Access for All’ and the committee did not have one disabled person on it. “I have been involved in this for twenty years and working on it everyday and still do not know everything, so how do these people know everything,” he said angrily.
While the money is being spent, much of it is wasted on inadequate planning and poor construction. What may look like a good job may not suit the demands of a wheelchair user and what Tom would like to see is a designated team to carry out theses jobs. He believes that from talking to other disability campaigners, there will be people running in elections very soon unless the procedures for disability accessibility is improved.
“The Council say we are doing good work and they are spending so much money on improvements. I think the money’s wasted. They are within sitting around asking how this or that street is? If a street needs to be done they’ll send a few men down Monday morning and they send down the men and they are not trained. If they are serious about improving access on the streets they really want to get a specific team in the town and train them in disability issues. Currently they go out and do the work to the best of their knowledge but nobody actually tells them what to do. The work is done and is not half done. They don’t ask us about it until after it is done and who is the true expert but the person who will be using it.”
While new buildings are obliged to facilitate for wheelchair accessibility, a number of houses and buildings are complying to this. However, a new bill called the Building Control Bill 2005 is being passed through the Oireachtas which complies all buildings to be legally bound to obtain a Disability Access Certificate. Tom believes this is a positive step forward in forcing developers not to cut corners when dealing with disability access.
Toms life changed utterly in March 1981, when after returning to Dublin from Drogheda he was involved in a car accident which broke his spinal cord and left him paralysed from the waist down. He was 35 years old and brought to the spinal unit of Dœn Laoghaire hospital. While he was never told he would never walk again, he knew after the first few weeks it did not look good. Being confined to a wheelchair may be the death nail for some people but it never put Tom down. He felt lucky to have travelled around England and Europe, and there were people in hospital with worse injuries than he had. He remembers a young rugby player called Gus Barrett who was only 20 years old and could not even move his hand. However, no matter how accepting he was of his fate, he admitted being afraid of going home after nine months in hospital.
“I was nine months in the hospital and if anything went wrong there was a nurse there to do something for you. I was afraid to come out, tough and all as you feel, I was afraid of hitting things. I felt safe inside and I never thought of coming out. They prepare you to get out but they don’t prepare you for being out there. I thought everything would go wrong when I went out,” he explained.
After being released he came back to Newport and was looked after by his brother and sister, but felt like a burden on them. It was not until he got a car that he felt he retrieved some semblance of independence. However, he soon realised that he was not totally independent and had to plan his every move around the lack of wheelchair accessibility. It was not until ten years after the accident while recovering from a hip injury that he realised there should be more done for wheelchair users.
“I was confined to bed at the time and I thought to myself how much Newport had improved in the last ten years since the accident. It took off from then because I realised nothing had been done about it. I started lobbying further afield then and I felt I could be doing a bit. I set up a disability group and wrote to the papers. Now I get lots of people ringing me up asking if I could have a look at a few things to make them more accessible and I know then one is getting somewhere,” he revealed.
A keen footballer in his younger days, he captained Mulranny to the 1964 minor league title, something he will never forget. He does not attend many football matches because of the terrible facilities and was critical of McHale Park in Castlebar and even Croke Park. Following the success of the Special Olympics in 2003, there was great hope the awareness of disability would be raised by the ordinary person. While there was an initial upsurge in interest, Tom feels that momentum was never continued.
“People are saying it is changing attitudes, there was great talk and great ideas when the Special Olympics was here but it seems to be drifting away. I am disappointed because I thought it would change.When some members of the Luxembourg team were staying in Newport and there was one wheelchair athlete who had to stay with me because there was nowhere to stay in Newport. I don’t know what would have happened if I did not have a spare bed. I thought things like that would open their eyes but it did not.”
Christopher Reeve, who died in 2004, spent million of dollars on research in the hope of walking again. Tom believes that while he may never walk again he hopes that in the future they will eventually get a cure but until then he will continue to campaign for the rights of disabled people.
Anton McNulty
Since a car accident in 1981 left him paralysed from the waist down, Tom Chambers has let his life campaigning for the rights of disabled people. While there has been welcome changes a lot more can be done.
IF there’s one phrase that makes Tom Chambers want to pull his hair out, it is; ‘state of the art’. It is used to describe every facility in new developments the length and breadth of the country and is frequently linked with disabled facilities.
For over twenty years, Newport man Tom Chambers has crusaded for the considerations of wheelchair bound people to be taken into account to help make everyday tasks more accessible. Every day, people restricted to wheelchairs face hardships and difficulties when dealing with basic daily tasks. Whether it be posting a letter, going to the shops or crossing a street, there are always obstacles and barriers in their way.
Under the Barcelona Declaration of 1995, local authorities are obliged to promote disability awareness and ensure the rights of disabled people, and establish structures of ongoing consultation between people with disabilities and their representatives. While in theory this is to be welcomed, according to Tom in practice there is little consultation and many of the so-called ‘state of the art’ disabled facilities are flawed. Only last week, he was at a function in a new hotel in Mayo and was left in an embarrassing situation when the disabled toilets were too small for the door to be closed behind him, leaving him without any privacy.
Last year, in his home town of Newport, a project costing Û100,000 was spent on disability access on the streets. It was described as a state of the art ramp and unique to the county in facilitating the disabled. He feels it was anything but state of the art and is not suitable for wheelchairs. He told the council it would not work but they chose to take the word of their engineers, rather than consult the intended service user something which Tom feels is the core to the problem.
“When I heard it was state of the art, I felt like pulling the hair out of my head,” explained Tom. “To describe it as unique to the country in facilitating the disabled is an awful insult to people with disabilities. The chap who was put in charge was a horticulturist for Mayo County Council and he got this job and was acting as engineer, planner and builder. I said to him that the plans were not right, but he went to the engineers who said it complied with the building regulations. Under the building regulations for steep ramps, they are obliged to bring hand rails down twelve inches past the wall, these ones are stopped about twelve inches short. The Û100,000 was supposed to improve the facilities and it has not so far. Even women with prams are trying to use it and they see how inaccessible it can be. But it is things like that that keeps me going.”
There is no doubt in Tom’s mind that a lot of the problems lie with the Town and County Councils and the poor planning they put into dealing with disabled facilities. If he complains he feels he is pushed from pillar to post and believes they are not taking the issue seriously. He explained that an action group was set up Mayo Co. Council, called ‘Access for All’ and the committee did not have one disabled person on it. “I have been involved in this for twenty years and working on it everyday and still do not know everything, so how do these people know everything,” he said angrily.
While the money is being spent, much of it is wasted on inadequate planning and poor construction. What may look like a good job may not suit the demands of a wheelchair user and what Tom would like to see is a designated team to carry out theses jobs. He believes that from talking to other disability campaigners, there will be people running in elections very soon unless the procedures for disability accessibility is improved.
“The Council say we are doing good work and they are spending so much money on improvements. I think the money’s wasted. They are within sitting around asking how this or that street is? If a street needs to be done they’ll send a few men down Monday morning and they send down the men and they are not trained. If they are serious about improving access on the streets they really want to get a specific team in the town and train them in disability issues. Currently they go out and do the work to the best of their knowledge but nobody actually tells them what to do. The work is done and is not half done. They don’t ask us about it until after it is done and who is the true expert but the person who will be using it.”
While new buildings are obliged to facilitate for wheelchair accessibility, a number of houses and buildings are complying to this. However, a new bill called the Building Control Bill 2005 is being passed through the Oireachtas which complies all buildings to be legally bound to obtain a Disability Access Certificate. Tom believes this is a positive step forward in forcing developers not to cut corners when dealing with disability access.
Toms life changed utterly in March 1981, when after returning to Dublin from Drogheda he was involved in a car accident which broke his spinal cord and left him paralysed from the waist down. He was 35 years old and brought to the spinal unit of Dœn Laoghaire hospital. While he was never told he would never walk again, he knew after the first few weeks it did not look good. Being confined to a wheelchair may be the death nail for some people but it never put Tom down. He felt lucky to have travelled around England and Europe, and there were people in hospital with worse injuries than he had. He remembers a young rugby player called Gus Barrett who was only 20 years old and could not even move his hand. However, no matter how accepting he was of his fate, he admitted being afraid of going home after nine months in hospital.
“I was nine months in the hospital and if anything went wrong there was a nurse there to do something for you. I was afraid to come out, tough and all as you feel, I was afraid of hitting things. I felt safe inside and I never thought of coming out. They prepare you to get out but they don’t prepare you for being out there. I thought everything would go wrong when I went out,” he explained.
After being released he came back to Newport and was looked after by his brother and sister, but felt like a burden on them. It was not until he got a car that he felt he retrieved some semblance of independence. However, he soon realised that he was not totally independent and had to plan his every move around the lack of wheelchair accessibility. It was not until ten years after the accident while recovering from a hip injury that he realised there should be more done for wheelchair users.
“I was confined to bed at the time and I thought to myself how much Newport had improved in the last ten years since the accident. It took off from then because I realised nothing had been done about it. I started lobbying further afield then and I felt I could be doing a bit. I set up a disability group and wrote to the papers. Now I get lots of people ringing me up asking if I could have a look at a few things to make them more accessible and I know then one is getting somewhere,” he revealed.
A keen footballer in his younger days, he captained Mulranny to the 1964 minor league title, something he will never forget. He does not attend many football matches because of the terrible facilities and was critical of McHale Park in Castlebar and even Croke Park. Following the success of the Special Olympics in 2003, there was great hope the awareness of disability would be raised by the ordinary person. While there was an initial upsurge in interest, Tom feels that momentum was never continued.
“People are saying it is changing attitudes, there was great talk and great ideas when the Special Olympics was here but it seems to be drifting away. I am disappointed because I thought it would change.When some members of the Luxembourg team were staying in Newport and there was one wheelchair athlete who had to stay with me because there was nowhere to stay in Newport. I don’t know what would have happened if I did not have a spare bed. I thought things like that would open their eyes but it did not.”
Christopher Reeve, who died in 2004, spent million of dollars on research in the hope of walking again. Tom believes that while he may never walk again he hopes that in the future they will eventually get a cure but until then he will continue to campaign for the rights of disabled people.
The Celtic
“The Celtic Tiger” and Ireland“?
Can anyone tell me as to why it is so difficult to have a basic need catered to regarding accessibility in Ireland? In this day and age you would think firstly that pure and utter logic would prevail, but with my experiences, and with the so called "Celtic Tiger" we are years away from being a society that open doors.
Sorry, regulars only !
Yeah I know, yet another wheelchair story about how hard done by the disabled are. Yes but this time with a twist and the odd flavour of madness.Let me start by giving a synopsis as to the type of person who actually took time out to clear his mind of the everyday hypocrisy a wheelchair user has to deal with (note that I stated user and not bound, I am quiet attached to my chair when getting around but I tend to leave it outside the covers when I sleep).I don’t mind in the least as to how I would be classed, it differs from generation to generation, and to an elderly person I would be classed as an invalid, personally I think myself to be a valid person but hey, those were the times so you had to roll with it. Today, people get too hung up on what they perceive themselves to be and what category they file into. I suppose some people feel they need to belong to a group whether they are disabled or not, but who among us doesn’t suffer from one form of a disability, be it obvious like mine or the able bodied male in his pin stripped suit who has been rendered impotent due to the pressures of work. Personally, I’d prefer my chair.So let’s get back on track, I’m a 62 year old male, paraplegic, March ’81 was an eye opener for me, I found out that I actually owned a spinal cord. It didn’t seem very important at the time but I like many others found out that when that cord gets damaged, it can change a life in an instant. My first experience with the consultant in the rehab, I even learned as to the different levels on the spinal column as he briefly muttered you’re a T7 and walked away. When you’re in a position like that, you find it to be “a hard tablet to swallow” but I considered myself as lucky, with the amount of damage that was done, I was very lucky to be breathing, although still at this time it was with the aid of a machine, but I knew it wouldn’t be long before I tasted the sweet burning of my lungs as I inhaled my first cigarette. Some people never learn.I always had strong will power but never acted upon it, so I thought it’s now or never. I am no different to many spinal injuries who took the bull by the horns, so I dusted myself off and got on with life, no self pity, no chip on my shoulder, no “why me?”. The way I look it is “why not me” it can happen to anyone in a heart beat, and it doesn’t discriminate between rich or poor, male or female, young or old. You just got to play the cards you were dealt and make the most of it. I am also of the view which some people find harsh is that some people with disabilities really irritate me, now of course if I was able to walk on shoe leather, to make a statement like that I would be classed as some form of a bigot, I on the other hand have seen it first hand as to how much whining someone can do purely because they think society in general should stand up and take notice. I got news for ye lads; society doesn’t give two fiddlers, so get your balls back and move on.I’ve heard it all over the years, even from the mouth of an MEP who while on his visit to the rehab said and I quote “want anything done lads regarding any disability issue, then don’t come to me” so, you see whether you are in a chair or not, it doesn’t give you an automatic right to be a self righteous pain in the rectum. Yes people with disabilities have rights, as does anyone else in this god forsaken country. But what is the point in having all these rights. It reminds me of when I was given my free travel pass, what a load of good that was, I wasn’t able to get on a bus, to try and gain access to a train was like Bertie Ahern trying to get a sentence out without sticking both feet in his mouth.Access, now this is a word that nobody seems to understand. As a wheelchair user this is an issue that grounds a lot of ideas as to how you might want to spend an evening out. I, a drinker don’t frequent public houses very often, for two reasons, the first is that there is rarely an occasion when I would be able to gain access to the toilets, and I think the barman would be offended when I go to the counter and ask for an empty pint glass and then give it back to him full. The second reason is that I’m a magnet for the typical male who got up that morning and decided “today I’m going to the pub and I’m not leaving there till I’ve drank my weight in beer”. As he finds it quiet difficult to focus, he staggers his way towards me and feels the need to spend some time with me and tell me how marvellous I am because I can push myself, I am also subjected to his three second memory span, and then of course he decides to test the theory “push it and it moves”. One of the funniest regarding access I have came across is a pub Dublin which actually has a ramp leading up to an eight inch step, try figure that one out.I like to try and go places that I don’t get too much bother. So I decided to try the local cinema, notice I said “try”. But at least if I wanted to see a movie there was a good chance it was to be viewed with comfort. I thought to myself at the time “this is 2007, surely this will be done right” Yeah and then all the kings horses and all the kings men couldn’t put humpty dumpy together again. What a farce, I had plenty of access into the building. Well that didn’t go to plan as the seating area for wheelchair users is in the centre of the isle. Now my question is, where on gods green earth is the logic in that? Not to mention the fact that being a six footer in a chair and towering over people beside me, I automatically become a nightmare for the person in the back row with his camcorder stuck between his legs. Have any of these developers got an IQ over seventy? Wouldn’t it be a logical step to take to have a wheelchair user taken onboard, purely as a consultant? People in suits designing buildings and giving their own interputation of access, isn’t the way to do it. Are they under the illusion that we are grateful for the day out and going to the cinema itself should be enough, sure didn’t he get out for the day anyway, isn’t he great, god bless him.Now if you ever fancy a weekend away and decide to book a B&B, well enough said. Reason why is because there are no B&B’s that truly cater for people with disabilities, yes I know one has opened in Munster but that seems to have a seasonal opening and if someone doesn’t want to cater all year round then personally I’m not going to bother giving my custom, see I have just exercised one of my rights. So the majority of times I would use a Hotel, well easier said than done, some places when you ring up and book a room and state “I would like a room with wheelchair access and also for the en suite to be wheelchair friendly”. Done and dusted, hotel booked for the weekend, into the car and off we go. Arrive at the hotel, check in, toddle off up to the room, and I let curiosity get the better of me and take the leap forward to check out the en suite.Then reality sets in, I’m away for the weekend, with absolutely no way of bathing properly, I’m facing a room that you could barely swing a cat in, a bath that’s not accessible and since I don’t bring a mirror with me, shaving becomes difficult as the mirror is a foot above my head. Come on people it’s not rocket science. One group of hotels I enjoy frequenting are the quality choice hotels, when you ask for a wheelchair accessible room, you get exactly what you need, but I do have one complaint regarding the en suite, although it is quiet spacious and actually even has a roll in shower which I was pleasantly surprised to see, there was one main ingredient missing “the shower chair”. How am I to shower? How am I to get from the bed to the shower? Use my wheelchair? It doesn’t take much for people who are in business which cater to the public to get advice in these matters, but we are the minority and that has been proven when you see the amount of rooms any given hotel out there has so called adapted for the disabled.My least pleasant stay would have been in a hotel in Co. Cork. That was a joke, wheelchair accessible room was upstairs, only thing was that the lift didn’t stop on that floor. So you had to go through the back yard, where all the crap was kept, then you had to wait to make sure a member of staff had the keys for the back door to gain access to the “wheelchair accessible” room, but that really didn’t matter as you could use the time well by warming up before you tackled the ramp leading up to the back door, and as you can see there is no point in going into more detail as to what this hotel catered for, but I did have the pleasure in filling out a comment card I was so graciously handed upon leaving, Personally I think there just isn’t enough room on them cards to really elaborate your true feelings.
Before I go; I must exercise my vote even though I am informed once again that my local polling station is inaccessible and I will have to use another station (N.S.) “So much for education” that has a makeshift ramp around the back of the buildingYes I know “able bodied have feelings too”. But the sooner this country gets with the times the better it will be for all of us.
Tom Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Newport.
Can anyone tell me as to why it is so difficult to have a basic need catered to regarding accessibility in Ireland? In this day and age you would think firstly that pure and utter logic would prevail, but with my experiences, and with the so called "Celtic Tiger" we are years away from being a society that open doors.
Sorry, regulars only !
Yeah I know, yet another wheelchair story about how hard done by the disabled are. Yes but this time with a twist and the odd flavour of madness.Let me start by giving a synopsis as to the type of person who actually took time out to clear his mind of the everyday hypocrisy a wheelchair user has to deal with (note that I stated user and not bound, I am quiet attached to my chair when getting around but I tend to leave it outside the covers when I sleep).I don’t mind in the least as to how I would be classed, it differs from generation to generation, and to an elderly person I would be classed as an invalid, personally I think myself to be a valid person but hey, those were the times so you had to roll with it. Today, people get too hung up on what they perceive themselves to be and what category they file into. I suppose some people feel they need to belong to a group whether they are disabled or not, but who among us doesn’t suffer from one form of a disability, be it obvious like mine or the able bodied male in his pin stripped suit who has been rendered impotent due to the pressures of work. Personally, I’d prefer my chair.So let’s get back on track, I’m a 62 year old male, paraplegic, March ’81 was an eye opener for me, I found out that I actually owned a spinal cord. It didn’t seem very important at the time but I like many others found out that when that cord gets damaged, it can change a life in an instant. My first experience with the consultant in the rehab, I even learned as to the different levels on the spinal column as he briefly muttered you’re a T7 and walked away. When you’re in a position like that, you find it to be “a hard tablet to swallow” but I considered myself as lucky, with the amount of damage that was done, I was very lucky to be breathing, although still at this time it was with the aid of a machine, but I knew it wouldn’t be long before I tasted the sweet burning of my lungs as I inhaled my first cigarette. Some people never learn.I always had strong will power but never acted upon it, so I thought it’s now or never. I am no different to many spinal injuries who took the bull by the horns, so I dusted myself off and got on with life, no self pity, no chip on my shoulder, no “why me?”. The way I look it is “why not me” it can happen to anyone in a heart beat, and it doesn’t discriminate between rich or poor, male or female, young or old. You just got to play the cards you were dealt and make the most of it. I am also of the view which some people find harsh is that some people with disabilities really irritate me, now of course if I was able to walk on shoe leather, to make a statement like that I would be classed as some form of a bigot, I on the other hand have seen it first hand as to how much whining someone can do purely because they think society in general should stand up and take notice. I got news for ye lads; society doesn’t give two fiddlers, so get your balls back and move on.I’ve heard it all over the years, even from the mouth of an MEP who while on his visit to the rehab said and I quote “want anything done lads regarding any disability issue, then don’t come to me” so, you see whether you are in a chair or not, it doesn’t give you an automatic right to be a self righteous pain in the rectum. Yes people with disabilities have rights, as does anyone else in this god forsaken country. But what is the point in having all these rights. It reminds me of when I was given my free travel pass, what a load of good that was, I wasn’t able to get on a bus, to try and gain access to a train was like Bertie Ahern trying to get a sentence out without sticking both feet in his mouth.Access, now this is a word that nobody seems to understand. As a wheelchair user this is an issue that grounds a lot of ideas as to how you might want to spend an evening out. I, a drinker don’t frequent public houses very often, for two reasons, the first is that there is rarely an occasion when I would be able to gain access to the toilets, and I think the barman would be offended when I go to the counter and ask for an empty pint glass and then give it back to him full. The second reason is that I’m a magnet for the typical male who got up that morning and decided “today I’m going to the pub and I’m not leaving there till I’ve drank my weight in beer”. As he finds it quiet difficult to focus, he staggers his way towards me and feels the need to spend some time with me and tell me how marvellous I am because I can push myself, I am also subjected to his three second memory span, and then of course he decides to test the theory “push it and it moves”. One of the funniest regarding access I have came across is a pub Dublin which actually has a ramp leading up to an eight inch step, try figure that one out.I like to try and go places that I don’t get too much bother. So I decided to try the local cinema, notice I said “try”. But at least if I wanted to see a movie there was a good chance it was to be viewed with comfort. I thought to myself at the time “this is 2007, surely this will be done right” Yeah and then all the kings horses and all the kings men couldn’t put humpty dumpy together again. What a farce, I had plenty of access into the building. Well that didn’t go to plan as the seating area for wheelchair users is in the centre of the isle. Now my question is, where on gods green earth is the logic in that? Not to mention the fact that being a six footer in a chair and towering over people beside me, I automatically become a nightmare for the person in the back row with his camcorder stuck between his legs. Have any of these developers got an IQ over seventy? Wouldn’t it be a logical step to take to have a wheelchair user taken onboard, purely as a consultant? People in suits designing buildings and giving their own interputation of access, isn’t the way to do it. Are they under the illusion that we are grateful for the day out and going to the cinema itself should be enough, sure didn’t he get out for the day anyway, isn’t he great, god bless him.Now if you ever fancy a weekend away and decide to book a B&B, well enough said. Reason why is because there are no B&B’s that truly cater for people with disabilities, yes I know one has opened in Munster but that seems to have a seasonal opening and if someone doesn’t want to cater all year round then personally I’m not going to bother giving my custom, see I have just exercised one of my rights. So the majority of times I would use a Hotel, well easier said than done, some places when you ring up and book a room and state “I would like a room with wheelchair access and also for the en suite to be wheelchair friendly”. Done and dusted, hotel booked for the weekend, into the car and off we go. Arrive at the hotel, check in, toddle off up to the room, and I let curiosity get the better of me and take the leap forward to check out the en suite.Then reality sets in, I’m away for the weekend, with absolutely no way of bathing properly, I’m facing a room that you could barely swing a cat in, a bath that’s not accessible and since I don’t bring a mirror with me, shaving becomes difficult as the mirror is a foot above my head. Come on people it’s not rocket science. One group of hotels I enjoy frequenting are the quality choice hotels, when you ask for a wheelchair accessible room, you get exactly what you need, but I do have one complaint regarding the en suite, although it is quiet spacious and actually even has a roll in shower which I was pleasantly surprised to see, there was one main ingredient missing “the shower chair”. How am I to shower? How am I to get from the bed to the shower? Use my wheelchair? It doesn’t take much for people who are in business which cater to the public to get advice in these matters, but we are the minority and that has been proven when you see the amount of rooms any given hotel out there has so called adapted for the disabled.My least pleasant stay would have been in a hotel in Co. Cork. That was a joke, wheelchair accessible room was upstairs, only thing was that the lift didn’t stop on that floor. So you had to go through the back yard, where all the crap was kept, then you had to wait to make sure a member of staff had the keys for the back door to gain access to the “wheelchair accessible” room, but that really didn’t matter as you could use the time well by warming up before you tackled the ramp leading up to the back door, and as you can see there is no point in going into more detail as to what this hotel catered for, but I did have the pleasure in filling out a comment card I was so graciously handed upon leaving, Personally I think there just isn’t enough room on them cards to really elaborate your true feelings.
Before I go; I must exercise my vote even though I am informed once again that my local polling station is inaccessible and I will have to use another station (N.S.) “So much for education” that has a makeshift ramp around the back of the buildingYes I know “able bodied have feelings too”. But the sooner this country gets with the times the better it will be for all of us.
Tom Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Newport.
CENTRE FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING
Parish Centre,
Chapel Street,
Castlebar,
Co Mayo.
Phone 094 903498
FAX 094 9044974
E-mail:
Press Release 21st May 2007
Mayo Centre for independent Living hosted a breakfast meeting at the TF Royal Hotel and Theatre Castlebar for the Mayo General Election Candidates 2007. The meeting was attended by 4 of the outgoing TD’s for Mayo Enda Kenny TD and Leader of Fine Gael, Michael Ring TD (Fine Gael), and the two Independent TD’s, Dr. Jerry Cowley TD, and Beverley Flynn TD, also in attendance were candidates Cllrs. Frank Chambers (Fianna Fail), Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein), and Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin (Fine Gael).
Apologies were received from John Carty TD (Fianna Fail, Harry Barrett (Labour) and John O’Mahoney (Fine Gael).
There were a large number of People in attendance, representing the Mayo CIL Leader Group, together with some of their family members, some Mayo CIL staff, Representatives from the Disability Federation of Ireland, from Enable Ireland, from the PWDI, from the Irish Wheelchair Association, the National Learning Network and the HSE.
Deirdre Fahey (Chairperson of Mayo CIL) chaired the Meeting.
The 10 Key Points of the Agenda were outlined to the meeting by Patrick Lillis (Programme Manager Mayo CIL)
The 10 Key Points
Mainstreaming of Health related Community Employment schemes.
1) Waiting lists for P.A. Services to be resolved.
2) A cost of Disability Payment to be put in place, with a minimum payment of €40 per week.
3) Greater availability of Community Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Services.
4) Disabled persons housing grant scheme to be more streamlined and easier to access. To include more flexibility with regard to income thresholds.
5) The Building accesses certificate to be enforced at building completion.
When will the promised new M Document be implemented as agreed in the Disability Act 2006?
6) Benefit traps for people with disabilities to be resolved.
7) Accessible train carriages to be brought on line.
8) Full and speedy Implementation of the National Disability Strategy.
9) Cut- backs in Hospital accessible Transport Services to be reversed.
First to speak was Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny TD, in a full and detailed statement; he outlined the clear commitment of his party to providing a cost of disability payment, the full and speedy implementation of the National Disability Strategy. Enda committed that a Government led by him would have a specific Minister and office with responsibility for Disability issues. Furthermore he stated that should he be given the privilege, that his the (Taoiseach’s) door would be open at all times, to consult on disability related issues.
Next to speak was Beverley Flynn TD, she outlined progress which she felt had already been made on several of the key points above. Beverley looked forward to the possibility of being in the balance of power in a new regime post election, and committed to her further support for the key points raised. Beverley said that People with disabilities should not have to wait a further year or two for accessible trains.
Michael Ring TD reiterated his Leaders comments and added that he would continue his support to people with disabilities, to continue his work on Disability issues in general. Michael felt that there was now a golden opportunity for Co.Mayo to have both a Taoiseach and Tanaiste from the County. He said, the measures outlined in Enda Kenny’s speech would lead to tremendous tangible benefits flowing to People with disabilities throughout Ireland.
Dr. Jerry Cowley TD (Independent) also looked forward to the possibility that Independents would play a pivotal role in the next Government. Dr. Cowley gave full support to the quick implementation of the NDS, he said he felt that the imposition of a cost of disability payment should be a priority for any new Government, and that action was required on all the key point s raised on the agenda. Gerry also raised his support for carers, highlighting a project that he is promoting through funding from Enhancing Disability Services. Dr. Cowley said that this service is available to anyone.
Cllr. Frank Chambers(Fianna Fail) was next to speak, outlining several issues that he felt had been advanced by the outgoing Government, he also outlined his ongoing support for People with disabilities and Mayo CIL. Cllr. Chambers reiterated his support on access issues, he highlighted the positive changes that he felt had taken place on access issues, in Westport in particular. On this subject he acknowledged the work done on access issues by Tom Chambers, in Westport and its hinterland.
Cllr Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein) stated that amendments need to be made to the Disability Act, as he outlined it , the present Act does not ensure a Right of People to services, rather it merely entitles a person to a statement of their needs. Unfortunately the Act does not make a requirement on the State that such needs be met, citing resources as a particular get out clause. Gerry felt that without amendment the Disability Act in its present state is much too weak from the viewpoint of People with disabilities and those who support them.
Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin spoke about her support for independent living as a Rights and choice issue for People with Disability, and that she looked forward to the implementation of the NDS, under a Government headed by Enda Kenny.
There were several contributors from the floor including Michael Corbett of the DFI, Paul Burton a Leader from Mayo CIL, and Gina Eracleaus, they raised a range of issues, from the Mainstreaming of health related CE schemes, to recognition for carers, to the need for waiting lists for Personal Assistant services to dealt with immediately.
Deirdre Fahey closed the meeting thanking the participants, particularly she thanked the PWDI and Enable Ireland for their assistance in putting together the mornings event. Finally Deirdre wished all the Candidates the very best in Thursdays Election.
CENTRE FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING
Parish Centre,
Chapel Street,
Castlebar,
Co Mayo.
Phone 094 903498
FAX 094 9044974
E-mail:
Press Release 21st May 2007
Mayo Centre for independent Living hosted a breakfast meeting at the TF Royal Hotel and Theatre Castlebar for the Mayo General Election Candidates 2007. The meeting was attended by 4 of the outgoing TD’s for Mayo Enda Kenny TD and Leader of Fine Gael, Michael Ring TD (Fine Gael), and the two Independent TD’s, Dr. Jerry Cowley TD, and Beverley Flynn TD, also in attendance were candidates Cllrs. Frank Chambers (Fianna Fail), Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein), and Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin (Fine Gael).
Apologies were received from John Carty TD (Fianna Fail, Harry Barrett (Labour) and John O’Mahoney (Fine Gael).
There were a large number of People in attendance, representing the Mayo CIL Leader Group, together with some of their family members, some Mayo CIL staff, Representatives from the Disability Federation of Ireland, from Enable Ireland, from the PWDI, from the Irish Wheelchair Association, the National Learning Network and the HSE.
Deirdre Fahey (Chairperson of Mayo CIL) chaired the Meeting.
The 10 Key Points of the Agenda were outlined to the meeting by Patrick Lillis (Programme Manager Mayo CIL)
The 10 Key Points
Mainstreaming of Health related Community Employment schemes.
1) Waiting lists for P.A. Services to be resolved.
2) A cost of Disability Payment to be put in place, with a minimum payment of €40 per week.
3) Greater availability of Community Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Services.
4) Disabled persons housing grant scheme to be more streamlined and easier to access. To include more flexibility with regard to income thresholds.
5) The Building accesses certificate to be enforced at building completion.
When will the promised new M Document be implemented as agreed in the Disability Act 2006?
6) Benefit traps for people with disabilities to be resolved.
7) Accessible train carriages to be brought on line.
8) Full and speedy Implementation of the National Disability Strategy.
9) Cut- backs in Hospital accessible Transport Services to be reversed.
First to speak was Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny TD, in a full and detailed statement; he outlined the clear commitment of his party to providing a cost of disability payment, the full and speedy implementation of the National Disability Strategy. Enda committed that a Government led by him would have a specific Minister and office with responsibility for Disability issues. Furthermore he stated that should he be given the privilege, that his the (Taoiseach’s) door would be open at all times, to consult on disability related issues.
Next to speak was Beverley Flynn TD, she outlined progress which she felt had already been made on several of the key points above. Beverley looked forward to the possibility of being in the balance of power in a new regime post election, and committed to her further support for the key points raised. Beverley said that People with disabilities should not have to wait a further year or two for accessible trains.
Michael Ring TD reiterated his Leaders comments and added that he would continue his support to people with disabilities, to continue his work on Disability issues in general. Michael felt that there was now a golden opportunity for Co.Mayo to have both a Taoiseach and Tanaiste from the County. He said, the measures outlined in Enda Kenny’s speech would lead to tremendous tangible benefits flowing to People with disabilities throughout Ireland.
Dr. Jerry Cowley TD (Independent) also looked forward to the possibility that Independents would play a pivotal role in the next Government. Dr. Cowley gave full support to the quick implementation of the NDS, he said he felt that the imposition of a cost of disability payment should be a priority for any new Government, and that action was required on all the key point s raised on the agenda. Gerry also raised his support for carers, highlighting a project that he is promoting through funding from Enhancing Disability Services. Dr. Cowley said that this service is available to anyone.
Cllr. Frank Chambers(Fianna Fail) was next to speak, outlining several issues that he felt had been advanced by the outgoing Government, he also outlined his ongoing support for People with disabilities and Mayo CIL. Cllr. Chambers reiterated his support on access issues, he highlighted the positive changes that he felt had taken place on access issues, in Westport in particular. On this subject he acknowledged the work done on access issues by Tom Chambers, in Westport and its hinterland.
Cllr Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein) stated that amendments need to be made to the Disability Act, as he outlined it , the present Act does not ensure a Right of People to services, rather it merely entitles a person to a statement of their needs. Unfortunately the Act does not make a requirement on the State that such needs be met, citing resources as a particular get out clause. Gerry felt that without amendment the Disability Act in its present state is much too weak from the viewpoint of People with disabilities and those who support them.
Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin spoke about her support for independent living as a Rights and choice issue for People with Disability, and that she looked forward to the implementation of the NDS, under a Government headed by Enda Kenny.
There were several contributors from the floor including Michael Corbett of the DFI, Paul Burton a Leader from Mayo CIL, and Gina Eracleaus, they raised a range of issues, from the Mainstreaming of health related CE schemes, to recognition for carers, to the need for waiting lists for Personal Assistant services to dealt with immediately.
Deirdre Fahey closed the meeting thanking the participants, particularly she thanked the PWDI and Enable Ireland for their assistance in putting together the mornings event. Finally Deirdre wished all the Candidates the very best in Thursdays Election.
Parish Centre,
Chapel Street,
Castlebar,
Co Mayo.
Phone 094 903498
FAX 094 9044974
E-mail:
Press Release 21st May 2007
Mayo Centre for independent Living hosted a breakfast meeting at the TF Royal Hotel and Theatre Castlebar for the Mayo General Election Candidates 2007. The meeting was attended by 4 of the outgoing TD’s for Mayo Enda Kenny TD and Leader of Fine Gael, Michael Ring TD (Fine Gael), and the two Independent TD’s, Dr. Jerry Cowley TD, and Beverley Flynn TD, also in attendance were candidates Cllrs. Frank Chambers (Fianna Fail), Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein), and Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin (Fine Gael).
Apologies were received from John Carty TD (Fianna Fail, Harry Barrett (Labour) and John O’Mahoney (Fine Gael).
There were a large number of People in attendance, representing the Mayo CIL Leader Group, together with some of their family members, some Mayo CIL staff, Representatives from the Disability Federation of Ireland, from Enable Ireland, from the PWDI, from the Irish Wheelchair Association, the National Learning Network and the HSE.
Deirdre Fahey (Chairperson of Mayo CIL) chaired the Meeting.
The 10 Key Points of the Agenda were outlined to the meeting by Patrick Lillis (Programme Manager Mayo CIL)
The 10 Key Points
Mainstreaming of Health related Community Employment schemes.
1) Waiting lists for P.A. Services to be resolved.
2) A cost of Disability Payment to be put in place, with a minimum payment of €40 per week.
3) Greater availability of Community Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Services.
4) Disabled persons housing grant scheme to be more streamlined and easier to access. To include more flexibility with regard to income thresholds.
5) The Building accesses certificate to be enforced at building completion.
When will the promised new M Document be implemented as agreed in the Disability Act 2006?
6) Benefit traps for people with disabilities to be resolved.
7) Accessible train carriages to be brought on line.
8) Full and speedy Implementation of the National Disability Strategy.
9) Cut- backs in Hospital accessible Transport Services to be reversed.
First to speak was Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny TD, in a full and detailed statement; he outlined the clear commitment of his party to providing a cost of disability payment, the full and speedy implementation of the National Disability Strategy. Enda committed that a Government led by him would have a specific Minister and office with responsibility for Disability issues. Furthermore he stated that should he be given the privilege, that his the (Taoiseach’s) door would be open at all times, to consult on disability related issues.
Next to speak was Beverley Flynn TD, she outlined progress which she felt had already been made on several of the key points above. Beverley looked forward to the possibility of being in the balance of power in a new regime post election, and committed to her further support for the key points raised. Beverley said that People with disabilities should not have to wait a further year or two for accessible trains.
Michael Ring TD reiterated his Leaders comments and added that he would continue his support to people with disabilities, to continue his work on Disability issues in general. Michael felt that there was now a golden opportunity for Co.Mayo to have both a Taoiseach and Tanaiste from the County. He said, the measures outlined in Enda Kenny’s speech would lead to tremendous tangible benefits flowing to People with disabilities throughout Ireland.
Dr. Jerry Cowley TD (Independent) also looked forward to the possibility that Independents would play a pivotal role in the next Government. Dr. Cowley gave full support to the quick implementation of the NDS, he said he felt that the imposition of a cost of disability payment should be a priority for any new Government, and that action was required on all the key point s raised on the agenda. Gerry also raised his support for carers, highlighting a project that he is promoting through funding from Enhancing Disability Services. Dr. Cowley said that this service is available to anyone.
Cllr. Frank Chambers(Fianna Fail) was next to speak, outlining several issues that he felt had been advanced by the outgoing Government, he also outlined his ongoing support for People with disabilities and Mayo CIL. Cllr. Chambers reiterated his support on access issues, he highlighted the positive changes that he felt had taken place on access issues, in Westport in particular. On this subject he acknowledged the work done on access issues by Tom Chambers, in Westport and its hinterland.
Cllr Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein) stated that amendments need to be made to the Disability Act, as he outlined it , the present Act does not ensure a Right of People to services, rather it merely entitles a person to a statement of their needs. Unfortunately the Act does not make a requirement on the State that such needs be met, citing resources as a particular get out clause. Gerry felt that without amendment the Disability Act in its present state is much too weak from the viewpoint of People with disabilities and those who support them.
Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin spoke about her support for independent living as a Rights and choice issue for People with Disability, and that she looked forward to the implementation of the NDS, under a Government headed by Enda Kenny.
There were several contributors from the floor including Michael Corbett of the DFI, Paul Burton a Leader from Mayo CIL, and Gina Eracleaus, they raised a range of issues, from the Mainstreaming of health related CE schemes, to recognition for carers, to the need for waiting lists for Personal Assistant services to dealt with immediately.
Deirdre Fahey closed the meeting thanking the participants, particularly she thanked the PWDI and Enable Ireland for their assistance in putting together the mornings event. Finally Deirdre wished all the Candidates the very best in Thursdays Election.
CENTRE FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING
Parish Centre,
Chapel Street,
Castlebar,
Co Mayo.
Phone 094 903498
FAX 094 9044974
E-mail:
Press Release 21st May 2007
Mayo Centre for independent Living hosted a breakfast meeting at the TF Royal Hotel and Theatre Castlebar for the Mayo General Election Candidates 2007. The meeting was attended by 4 of the outgoing TD’s for Mayo Enda Kenny TD and Leader of Fine Gael, Michael Ring TD (Fine Gael), and the two Independent TD’s, Dr. Jerry Cowley TD, and Beverley Flynn TD, also in attendance were candidates Cllrs. Frank Chambers (Fianna Fail), Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein), and Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin (Fine Gael).
Apologies were received from John Carty TD (Fianna Fail, Harry Barrett (Labour) and John O’Mahoney (Fine Gael).
There were a large number of People in attendance, representing the Mayo CIL Leader Group, together with some of their family members, some Mayo CIL staff, Representatives from the Disability Federation of Ireland, from Enable Ireland, from the PWDI, from the Irish Wheelchair Association, the National Learning Network and the HSE.
Deirdre Fahey (Chairperson of Mayo CIL) chaired the Meeting.
The 10 Key Points of the Agenda were outlined to the meeting by Patrick Lillis (Programme Manager Mayo CIL)
The 10 Key Points
Mainstreaming of Health related Community Employment schemes.
1) Waiting lists for P.A. Services to be resolved.
2) A cost of Disability Payment to be put in place, with a minimum payment of €40 per week.
3) Greater availability of Community Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Services.
4) Disabled persons housing grant scheme to be more streamlined and easier to access. To include more flexibility with regard to income thresholds.
5) The Building accesses certificate to be enforced at building completion.
When will the promised new M Document be implemented as agreed in the Disability Act 2006?
6) Benefit traps for people with disabilities to be resolved.
7) Accessible train carriages to be brought on line.
8) Full and speedy Implementation of the National Disability Strategy.
9) Cut- backs in Hospital accessible Transport Services to be reversed.
First to speak was Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny TD, in a full and detailed statement; he outlined the clear commitment of his party to providing a cost of disability payment, the full and speedy implementation of the National Disability Strategy. Enda committed that a Government led by him would have a specific Minister and office with responsibility for Disability issues. Furthermore he stated that should he be given the privilege, that his the (Taoiseach’s) door would be open at all times, to consult on disability related issues.
Next to speak was Beverley Flynn TD, she outlined progress which she felt had already been made on several of the key points above. Beverley looked forward to the possibility of being in the balance of power in a new regime post election, and committed to her further support for the key points raised. Beverley said that People with disabilities should not have to wait a further year or two for accessible trains.
Michael Ring TD reiterated his Leaders comments and added that he would continue his support to people with disabilities, to continue his work on Disability issues in general. Michael felt that there was now a golden opportunity for Co.Mayo to have both a Taoiseach and Tanaiste from the County. He said, the measures outlined in Enda Kenny’s speech would lead to tremendous tangible benefits flowing to People with disabilities throughout Ireland.
Dr. Jerry Cowley TD (Independent) also looked forward to the possibility that Independents would play a pivotal role in the next Government. Dr. Cowley gave full support to the quick implementation of the NDS, he said he felt that the imposition of a cost of disability payment should be a priority for any new Government, and that action was required on all the key point s raised on the agenda. Gerry also raised his support for carers, highlighting a project that he is promoting through funding from Enhancing Disability Services. Dr. Cowley said that this service is available to anyone.
Cllr. Frank Chambers(Fianna Fail) was next to speak, outlining several issues that he felt had been advanced by the outgoing Government, he also outlined his ongoing support for People with disabilities and Mayo CIL. Cllr. Chambers reiterated his support on access issues, he highlighted the positive changes that he felt had taken place on access issues, in Westport in particular. On this subject he acknowledged the work done on access issues by Tom Chambers, in Westport and its hinterland.
Cllr Gerry Murray (Sinn Fein) stated that amendments need to be made to the Disability Act, as he outlined it , the present Act does not ensure a Right of People to services, rather it merely entitles a person to a statement of their needs. Unfortunately the Act does not make a requirement on the State that such needs be met, citing resources as a particular get out clause. Gerry felt that without amendment the Disability Act in its present state is much too weak from the viewpoint of People with disabilities and those who support them.
Cllr. Michelle Mulherrin spoke about her support for independent living as a Rights and choice issue for People with Disability, and that she looked forward to the implementation of the NDS, under a Government headed by Enda Kenny.
There were several contributors from the floor including Michael Corbett of the DFI, Paul Burton a Leader from Mayo CIL, and Gina Eracleaus, they raised a range of issues, from the Mainstreaming of health related CE schemes, to recognition for carers, to the need for waiting lists for Personal Assistant services to dealt with immediately.
Deirdre Fahey closed the meeting thanking the participants, particularly she thanked the PWDI and Enable Ireland for their assistance in putting together the mornings event. Finally Deirdre wished all the Candidates the very best in Thursdays Election.
A Message From Tom Chambers,
Newport
Host to some of Luxembourg’s special Olympians ,and himself a wheelchair user for many years.
“I suppose I would be a rich man if I got a € 10 for every time I was asked if I was taking part in the Olympics. Okay I have competed against the best disabled athletes from many countries in Europe in the 80s and just failed to qualify for the Olympics in1986.
At my age now the nearest I will get to the Olympics is by hosting an athlete, which I am proud to do and am looking forward to attending the opening of the games in Croke Park.
Everyone old enough would remember where he or she when John F Kennedy was shot. Even we all remember the bombing in the U S A. but on the longest and greatest in my life, hope ,will be with 75.000 others crowded in Croake Park at the official opening of the Special Olympic Games.
We here in Ireland, especially the women, think there are only two famous people in the world .Joe Dolan and Daniel O Donnell. but on the 21st June ,I ,and others will have the pleasure of being entertained by two of the most important people in the world, Nelson Mandela and Mohamed Ali and 7,000 Special Athletes.
The coming games are for special Athletes, both children and adults with a learning disability. They compete in various types of sports which gives them an opportunity to develop physical fitness ,demonstrate courage, experience joy participate in sharing gifts, skill friendship with their families, other special Olympics athletes and the community.
Special Olympics athletes carry these benefits with them into their daily lives at home ,in the classroom ,on the job and in the community. Families who participate become stronger as they as they learn a greater appreciation of the athletes talents. Community volunteers find out what good friends the athletes can be. And everyone learns more about the capabilities of people with learning disability.
Hosting a Special Athlete by someone like myself who is confined to a wheelchair takes organising. But I had a good committee behind me. I also had great friends and relations who on the drop of a hat were able to answer my call for which I am grateful.
Many famous people have disabilities ,illness and impairments :Elton John(epilepsy), Stevie Wonder ( Visual impairment)Christopher Reeves( Quadriplegia)),Magic Johnson (H I Positive),Mohamed Ali (Parkinson Disease) Ronald Regan (Parkinson Disease),Brian Cowley, M E P (Paraplegic).
We don’t think of them as people with disabilities instead we think of them as great artists, leaders, or sports players .so why do we label some people by what they can’t do ,rather than what they are good at?
Finally can I remind everyone that the special Olympics athlete oath is ?
“let me win. but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt”
Tom Chambers
“The Billy Ranch “
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co Mayo
Newport
Host to some of Luxembourg’s special Olympians ,and himself a wheelchair user for many years.
“I suppose I would be a rich man if I got a € 10 for every time I was asked if I was taking part in the Olympics. Okay I have competed against the best disabled athletes from many countries in Europe in the 80s and just failed to qualify for the Olympics in1986.
At my age now the nearest I will get to the Olympics is by hosting an athlete, which I am proud to do and am looking forward to attending the opening of the games in Croke Park.
Everyone old enough would remember where he or she when John F Kennedy was shot. Even we all remember the bombing in the U S A. but on the longest and greatest in my life, hope ,will be with 75.000 others crowded in Croake Park at the official opening of the Special Olympic Games.
We here in Ireland, especially the women, think there are only two famous people in the world .Joe Dolan and Daniel O Donnell. but on the 21st June ,I ,and others will have the pleasure of being entertained by two of the most important people in the world, Nelson Mandela and Mohamed Ali and 7,000 Special Athletes.
The coming games are for special Athletes, both children and adults with a learning disability. They compete in various types of sports which gives them an opportunity to develop physical fitness ,demonstrate courage, experience joy participate in sharing gifts, skill friendship with their families, other special Olympics athletes and the community.
Special Olympics athletes carry these benefits with them into their daily lives at home ,in the classroom ,on the job and in the community. Families who participate become stronger as they as they learn a greater appreciation of the athletes talents. Community volunteers find out what good friends the athletes can be. And everyone learns more about the capabilities of people with learning disability.
Hosting a Special Athlete by someone like myself who is confined to a wheelchair takes organising. But I had a good committee behind me. I also had great friends and relations who on the drop of a hat were able to answer my call for which I am grateful.
Many famous people have disabilities ,illness and impairments :Elton John(epilepsy), Stevie Wonder ( Visual impairment)Christopher Reeves( Quadriplegia)),Magic Johnson (H I Positive),Mohamed Ali (Parkinson Disease) Ronald Regan (Parkinson Disease),Brian Cowley, M E P (Paraplegic).
We don’t think of them as people with disabilities instead we think of them as great artists, leaders, or sports players .so why do we label some people by what they can’t do ,rather than what they are good at?
Finally can I remind everyone that the special Olympics athlete oath is ?
“let me win. but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt”
Tom Chambers
“The Billy Ranch “
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co Mayo
Mayo Man delivers demands on disability to Strasbourg Parliament
A Momentary lapse in concentration and in the blink of an eye the course of Newport man Tom Chambers, life changed forever.
In the second it takes for the mind to slip without permission from consciousness into a half -sleep, Tom, behind the wheel of his car was sent careering off the road, stopped by a head on collision by a wall. He was found five hours later by the man whose wall he crashed into.
That was March 30th 1981 and that moment cost tom the use of his legs for the rest of his life. The many months of rehabilitation, of coming to terms with what happened and suddenly being faced with learning to live a whole new life-that all seems along, long time ago now. But it has started tom on a new and very different course in life ,one which has led him all the way to the doors of Strasbourg to hand deliver a list of demands, seeking action ,rather than words ,on the issue of rights for people with disabilities.
Last month, Tom joined 47 other Irish people as the single Mayo representative on the Strasbourg Freedom Drive 2007. This is the third time people with disabilities from all over Europe have come together to have their voices heard by meeting with M E Ps and submitting a list of demands.
Representing the centre of Independent living, Mayo, Tom’s own journey to Strasbourg involved a 3,000 kilometre round trip on a specially adapted bus. Flying anywhere, he says, has become harder and harder and the last time he took a flight his hip and ankle were so badly damaged that it took months to recover and his wheelchair went missing for over an hour on arrival at the other side. For Tom, this only highlights all the more just how important it is to get to Strasbourg and meet with the members of the European Parliament and try to influence future Europeans policy on disability.
As part of the three day drive campaigners from elgium,Bulgaria,France,Germany,Ireland,Italy,Norway,spain,Sweden and the U K. met with Mr Richard Howitt, M E P, and president of the European Independent Living Intergroup, to hand over a list of their demands.
Access to personal assistant services, which is absolutely vital if people with disabilities are to maintain an independent lifestyle, featured strongly. in Mayo alone, there are over 60 people on a waiting list for P A services, say’s Tom, and even when services are provided they can be limited. “living with a disability is seven days a week ,including Bank Holidays, ”he explains “and services need to reflect this.”
Another issue close to toms heart is that of proper access for people with disabilities
Our streetscapes .and buildings need to be designed using common sense ,he says there is little or no point in providing disabled parking space if the curb is so high that it cannot be accessed by a wheelchair user getting out of a car, he points out as a example of where policy makers are falling down because they are not applying simple common sense.
“Local representatives are failing people with disabilities“. he explains.
“all you have to do is ask someone who is living with a disability. It should be a given that they are the best people to tell you exactly what needs to be done and how best to do it.
“for such a rich Country, Ireland has failed people with disabilities. This is our third trip to Strasbourg and we shouldn’t have to go there .disability is never going to fade or go away.
It will always be an issue and we will keep returning to Strasbourg until we are listened to”
A Momentary lapse in concentration and in the blink of an eye the course of Newport man Tom Chambers, life changed forever.
In the second it takes for the mind to slip without permission from consciousness into a half -sleep, Tom, behind the wheel of his car was sent careering off the road, stopped by a head on collision by a wall. He was found five hours later by the man whose wall he crashed into.
That was March 30th 1981 and that moment cost tom the use of his legs for the rest of his life. The many months of rehabilitation, of coming to terms with what happened and suddenly being faced with learning to live a whole new life-that all seems along, long time ago now. But it has started tom on a new and very different course in life ,one which has led him all the way to the doors of Strasbourg to hand deliver a list of demands, seeking action ,rather than words ,on the issue of rights for people with disabilities.
Last month, Tom joined 47 other Irish people as the single Mayo representative on the Strasbourg Freedom Drive 2007. This is the third time people with disabilities from all over Europe have come together to have their voices heard by meeting with M E Ps and submitting a list of demands.
Representing the centre of Independent living, Mayo, Tom’s own journey to Strasbourg involved a 3,000 kilometre round trip on a specially adapted bus. Flying anywhere, he says, has become harder and harder and the last time he took a flight his hip and ankle were so badly damaged that it took months to recover and his wheelchair went missing for over an hour on arrival at the other side. For Tom, this only highlights all the more just how important it is to get to Strasbourg and meet with the members of the European Parliament and try to influence future Europeans policy on disability.
As part of the three day drive campaigners from elgium,Bulgaria,France,Germany,Ireland,Italy,Norway,spain,Sweden and the U K. met with Mr Richard Howitt, M E P, and president of the European Independent Living Intergroup, to hand over a list of their demands.
Access to personal assistant services, which is absolutely vital if people with disabilities are to maintain an independent lifestyle, featured strongly. in Mayo alone, there are over 60 people on a waiting list for P A services, say’s Tom, and even when services are provided they can be limited. “living with a disability is seven days a week ,including Bank Holidays, ”he explains “and services need to reflect this.”
Another issue close to toms heart is that of proper access for people with disabilities
Our streetscapes .and buildings need to be designed using common sense ,he says there is little or no point in providing disabled parking space if the curb is so high that it cannot be accessed by a wheelchair user getting out of a car, he points out as a example of where policy makers are falling down because they are not applying simple common sense.
“Local representatives are failing people with disabilities“. he explains.
“all you have to do is ask someone who is living with a disability. It should be a given that they are the best people to tell you exactly what needs to be done and how best to do it.
“for such a rich Country, Ireland has failed people with disabilities. This is our third trip to Strasbourg and we shouldn’t have to go there .disability is never going to fade or go away.
It will always be an issue and we will keep returning to Strasbourg until we are listened to”
State of our Streets
Dangerous Street Following the € 100.000 spent on the new street, paving on main Street Newport, which is regarded as having enhanced the town, there were many complaints that a section of the west side of the street was dangerous, as a result of many people being injured on it.In an effort to rectify the problem members of Mayo Co Council outdoor staff dug up the section in question last week and reset the paving.
Application for Toll-Bridges in Ireland
Exemption from toll charges for disabled drivers/passengers in Ireland
Disabled drivers/passengers with specially adapted vehicles in Ireland are exempt from toll charges on national roads throughout Ireland. Toll charges are currently in operation on the following five national roads in Ireland:
East-Link Toll Bridge (Dublin)
West-Link Toll Bridge (Dublin)
North-Link M1 Toll (Drogheda By-Pass)
M4 Toll (Kinnegad-Enfield-Kilcock)
Dublin Port Tunnel
Rules
You will need to complete an application form for exemption from toll charges on the East-Link, West-Link and M1 Toll. (If you are a disabled driver, driving an adapted vehicle you are exempt from tolls on the M4 Toll). Up to now Disabled Drivers were allowed to cross the East link Toll Bridge and the M1 Toll free on display of an International Disabled Person’s parking Card. However, now a special card called a Concessionary Travel Card must be produced when going through all tolls.
You will be issued with a Concessionary Travel Card when you apply. When you get your card it may state “West Link Toll Bridge”on it. Even so, this is the the card you use for free passage through the East-Link, West-Link and M1 Toll. If you do not have your Concessionary Travel Card with you , you must pay the normal toll at the barrier. (You just need to show you are a disabled driver driving an adapted vehicle for free passage through the M4 Toll).
The Disabled Person’s Parking Card and the Concessionary Travel Card are not interchangeable. In other words, you must have a Concessionary Travel Card to be exempt from paying a toll.
Necessary documents
As part of your application, you will have to provide a passport-sized photograph of the disabled driver/passenger and a copy of two of the following documents:
An exempt motor tax disc,
A Primary Medical Certificate,
Proof of refund of VAT/VRT
Proof of refund of excise duty on fuel,
Copy of Vehicle Registration/Licensing certificate
You will then be issued with an official Concessionary Travel Card. The Concessionary Travel Card is a wallet-sized plastic card (15cm x 11cm approx.) It has a photograph of the driver and details about your car. Your Concessionary Travel Card lasts for three years from the date it is issued. If you change your car during this period, you must return your card to National Toll Roads and a new card will be issued. It must also be returned after three years when it expires and a new one will be issued to you. Each time you pass through the toll plaza, you must show your card to the toll operator and you will be allowed pass through for free. Failure to show your card will mean you must pay the appropriate toll.
Where to apply
Toll Administrator,
Concessionary Travel Section
Transroute Tunnel Operations,
East Wall Road,
Dublin 3
Regards,
Tom Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
Disabled drivers/passengers with specially adapted vehicles in Ireland are exempt from toll charges on national roads throughout Ireland. Toll charges are currently in operation on the following five national roads in Ireland:
East-Link Toll Bridge (Dublin)
West-Link Toll Bridge (Dublin)
North-Link M1 Toll (Drogheda By-Pass)
M4 Toll (Kinnegad-Enfield-Kilcock)
Dublin Port Tunnel
Rules
You will need to complete an application form for exemption from toll charges on the East-Link, West-Link and M1 Toll. (If you are a disabled driver, driving an adapted vehicle you are exempt from tolls on the M4 Toll). Up to now Disabled Drivers were allowed to cross the East link Toll Bridge and the M1 Toll free on display of an International Disabled Person’s parking Card. However, now a special card called a Concessionary Travel Card must be produced when going through all tolls.
You will be issued with a Concessionary Travel Card when you apply. When you get your card it may state “West Link Toll Bridge”on it. Even so, this is the the card you use for free passage through the East-Link, West-Link and M1 Toll. If you do not have your Concessionary Travel Card with you , you must pay the normal toll at the barrier. (You just need to show you are a disabled driver driving an adapted vehicle for free passage through the M4 Toll).
The Disabled Person’s Parking Card and the Concessionary Travel Card are not interchangeable. In other words, you must have a Concessionary Travel Card to be exempt from paying a toll.
Necessary documents
As part of your application, you will have to provide a passport-sized photograph of the disabled driver/passenger and a copy of two of the following documents:
An exempt motor tax disc,
A Primary Medical Certificate,
Proof of refund of VAT/VRT
Proof of refund of excise duty on fuel,
Copy of Vehicle Registration/Licensing certificate
You will then be issued with an official Concessionary Travel Card. The Concessionary Travel Card is a wallet-sized plastic card (15cm x 11cm approx.) It has a photograph of the driver and details about your car. Your Concessionary Travel Card lasts for three years from the date it is issued. If you change your car during this period, you must return your card to National Toll Roads and a new card will be issued. It must also be returned after three years when it expires and a new one will be issued to you. Each time you pass through the toll plaza, you must show your card to the toll operator and you will be allowed pass through for free. Failure to show your card will mean you must pay the appropriate toll.
Where to apply
Toll Administrator,
Concessionary Travel Section
Transroute Tunnel Operations,
East Wall Road,
Dublin 3
Regards,
Tom Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
Re: National Disability Strategy
Re: National Disability Strategy
And the €850,000 allocated to Mayo Co. Council for 2006
It is a pity that the spending of this money is not more transparent. The county council and town councils get funding for disability issues but this money gets eaten up in improvements with elements of improving access but in many cases it is very hard to see, exactly, where the money has been spent. I would prefer to see this money ring fenced specifically for disability improvements.
Some disability access projects are transparent like the €20,000 allocation to Westport Leisure Park. This money will go towards a new lift for the pool, make the gym equipment accessible and hopefully correcting issues with the Accessible toilet.
I would propose that this year and in the years to come that the councils would publish a list of exactly where there allocated funding as been spent as this would make the issue very transparent and easy to see where money is being spent and more importantly where it is not. This would make it easier for all to see what areas need money and work. After all, it is taxpayer’s money that is used.
I would also like to welcome the application by An Post to insert a ramp to the front of the Westport Post office so that a wheelchair user can gain access just like an able-bodied person. This is a positive step and will greatly increase the access to this very important public building.
I wouldn’t like to give the impression that the councils are not doing valuable work in increasing access in Mayo, I would like it to be transparent and done in consultation with all parties, but I would also like to compliment all the local authorities in the county on their work in this area.
There is a serious concern that more than €17m in grants for people with disabilities was not disbursed in 2004. People are concerned that a similar situation must not happen again. It is simply not acceptable that such money would not be disbursed to address the needs of people with disabilities in having their homes adapted so that they can continue to live independently within their community.
Local authorities were advised by the Minister for the Environment in August of 2005 to review expenditure under this grant scheme in order to facilitate the re-allocation of funding to other local authorities to meet identified demands.
While we welcome this development, we are concerned of the needs to have the review of this grant scheme finalised and to take account of the need for standardisation in the assessment and allocation of funds. The Government needs to address the needs of vulnerable groups within the disability sector who cannot afford to meet the shortfall under the current grant allocation.
With kind regards,
Tom Chambers,
Disability Campaigner.
And the €850,000 allocated to Mayo Co. Council for 2006
It is a pity that the spending of this money is not more transparent. The county council and town councils get funding for disability issues but this money gets eaten up in improvements with elements of improving access but in many cases it is very hard to see, exactly, where the money has been spent. I would prefer to see this money ring fenced specifically for disability improvements.
Some disability access projects are transparent like the €20,000 allocation to Westport Leisure Park. This money will go towards a new lift for the pool, make the gym equipment accessible and hopefully correcting issues with the Accessible toilet.
I would propose that this year and in the years to come that the councils would publish a list of exactly where there allocated funding as been spent as this would make the issue very transparent and easy to see where money is being spent and more importantly where it is not. This would make it easier for all to see what areas need money and work. After all, it is taxpayer’s money that is used.
I would also like to welcome the application by An Post to insert a ramp to the front of the Westport Post office so that a wheelchair user can gain access just like an able-bodied person. This is a positive step and will greatly increase the access to this very important public building.
I wouldn’t like to give the impression that the councils are not doing valuable work in increasing access in Mayo, I would like it to be transparent and done in consultation with all parties, but I would also like to compliment all the local authorities in the county on their work in this area.
There is a serious concern that more than €17m in grants for people with disabilities was not disbursed in 2004. People are concerned that a similar situation must not happen again. It is simply not acceptable that such money would not be disbursed to address the needs of people with disabilities in having their homes adapted so that they can continue to live independently within their community.
Local authorities were advised by the Minister for the Environment in August of 2005 to review expenditure under this grant scheme in order to facilitate the re-allocation of funding to other local authorities to meet identified demands.
While we welcome this development, we are concerned of the needs to have the review of this grant scheme finalised and to take account of the need for standardisation in the assessment and allocation of funds. The Government needs to address the needs of vulnerable groups within the disability sector who cannot afford to meet the shortfall under the current grant allocation.
With kind regards,
Tom Chambers,
Disability Campaigner.
Wednesday, April 21, 2004 Tom rolls out plans to open doors for all By: Michael GallagherThe age-old problem of access to buildings and parking spaces for disabled people still exists but a Newport man has been making great efforts to come up with solutions.Tom Chambers is the Access Officer with the PWDI (People with disabilities Ireland) and he’s revelling in the role. He has been a tireless campaigner for disabled rights over the years and believes that the message is slowly getting through“Many developers have provided excellent access for the disabled but there are a number still out there who would look the other way if they got away with it. A lack of awareness and education exists among some architects, designers and service providers as to how to include people with a disability in the provision of full accessibility in buildings. Their actions are very distressing and they have no excuse because all they have to do is contact me and I will fill them in on all the regulations. Access sometimes focuses only on wheelchair users, however visually impaired people and others need to be included too. Facilities must be designed with everyone in the community in mind and this has to be correctly implemented.”The concept of ‘design for all” was introduced after the BarcelonaDeclaration came into being in 1995. The declaration was designed to enable local authorities to introduce measures that make cities, towns and villages accessible for all.Tom is regularly consulted by the local authorities and private developers when buildings are being designed and this has helped the situation greatly, he believes.“Simple consultation with the PWDI can divert a lot of problems. There’s little sense in providing wheelchair accessible toilets if disabled people cannot get into the building. There’s little point providing access at the front door if the building has stairs and no lift. A little thought, planning and consultation can go a long way.”
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