Wheelchair swing now accessible without restrictions in West Cork town

A new wheelchair swing which will be accessible without restrictions is now in place in the playground in Clonakilty following a campaign by a local disability rights activist.

Evie Nevin, who stood for Labour in Cork South West in the last general election, has welcomed the funding and thanked a number of local organisations who supported the campaign to get the new swing.

Last year, Ms Nevin had expressed her concern about what she described as the exclusion of children using wheelchairs from the wheelchair access swing which had been put in place as it could only be accessed with a special ‘radar’ key which was available to borrow from some local venues.

This key could also be purchased for €20 from a Dublin locksmith, with an additional €14.50 for delivery, through a system set up by the Irish Wheelchair Association.

The new swing, which was secured after funding totaling €65,000 was secured from the Community Recognition Fund, is now in place and is accessible without a key.

“This is a fantastic step forward for accessibility in Clonakilty,” said Evie. 

“A big thank you to all the parents and children I consulted with to find the perfect piece of equipment. 

“I also want to express my gratitude to the volunteers of Clonakilty Chamber of Commerce, Clonakilty Access Group and the Clonakilty Playground Group for joining the call for better accessibility, and to Jackie Mansfield of Cork County Council, who worked with me to secure the Community Recognition Fund which will pay for the new swing.”

The activist said she hoped the example set in Clonakilty would be repeated across the county.

“This isn’t just about a swing,” she said. It’s about ensuring that disabled children feel just as welcome in their community playground as anyone else.

“I’m thrilled that this is finally happening and I look forward to seeing accessibility improve for all children across the county."