GROUPS working with the disabled or those with mobility issues in Limerick are calling on people to think about the needs of others when advertising their companies, parking on footpaths, parking cars or even not picking up after your dog.
Make Way Day, organised by the Disability Federation of Ireland is taking place this Friday 25 September in Limerick and across the country highlighting issues affecting those who have mobility issues such as using wheelchairs.
For wheelchair users, the elderly, people with mobility issues, parents with buggies and children, having to navigate around a car or van blocking the footpath unnecessarily puts them on the road where they are being put in additional danger.
The day will draw attention to the challenges posed by things left on the footpath. This includes sandwich boards along a city street, cars parked on the footpath, or a wheelie bin left out other than on collection day, which result in those in a wheelchair or a parent walking with a buggy, having to go onto the road or street to get around the obstacle.
The scourge of dog poo on footpaths is also being highlighted by wheelchair users who are left with poo on the wheels and on their hands by the selfishness of certain dog owners who refuse to clean up after their dogs.
Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr Michael Collins said: “It is very important that those who are less abled can travel along our footpaths unhindered and in a safe manner. Make Way Day is a great campaign to make people aware of their actions.”
“These actions, which are often done without even thinking, can have adverse consequences for others. I am appealing to homeowners and businesses to make sure the footpaths outside their houses or premises are obstacle free, and for motorists to park their vehicles on the road and not the footpath.”
“These small changes will have a huge positive impact for people in wheelchairs and parents with buggies for example.”
As part of Make Way Day 2020, Limerick City and County Council will be taking part in a virtual meeting with disability groups at 11am where people will highlight access issues from their lived experience of disability. To join the meeting click here and follow the instructions.
Anyone who sees an obstacle on the footpath can tweet it to @MakeWayDay and by using the hashtag #MakeWayDay or #MakeWayLimerick
