Cork council considers piloting parking spaces for hidden disabilities

Cork County Council has said it will examine the feasibility of piloting car parking spaces for people with hidden disabilities across Cork in the coming months.

The comments come as calls have been made for the implementation of these spaces by Sinn Féin Cork East TD, Pat Buckley, who highlighted the successful installation of these spaces by other local authorities across the country.

“Across Ireland, one in five people are currently living with some form of a disability, 80% of which are non-visible, such as autism, acquired brain injury, sight or hearing impairment, or learning difficulties,” said Mr Buckley.

“Those with hidden disabilities, their families, or carers, may need a little extra time or assistance getting in and out of their car’s safely [and] some of these individuals would not qualify for a disabled parking badge.

“This is why Cork County Council and all local authorities across the county should take the essential step towards greater accessibility and inclusion by installing [these] designated parking spaces.

“These car parking spaces are easily identified with a bright yellow sunflower on a green background,” he added. “The sunflower has become internationally recognised as the symbol of hidden disabilities.”

Initiative

Mr Buckley further highlighted how these spaces would be installed in a safe location, not immediately located beside the road, and would be the same dimensions as a wheelchair accessible space. The public, he said, would also need to back the initiative leaving the spaces “for the sole use of those with hidden disabilities”.

A spokesperson for the council told The Echo that the matter has since been referred to the council’s roads and transportation strategic policy committee for consideration.

“These spaces are not provided for in legislation and are therefore non-statutory,” the spokesperson said.

“They are similar in ways to the parent and toddler spaces, and age-friendly spaces, that have become prevalent across the county.

“Their use is based on courtesy and awareness,” they added. “The council will examine the feasibility of piloting the initiative in a number of locations in the months ahead.”