Donegal County Council have made a significant milestone in their ongoing commitment to building an inclusive and accessible community with two all-terrain/beach wheelchairs and enhancement works on the beloved Tip O’Neill Trail in Inishowen.
The project was made possible through the contribution of ‘The Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme in Inishowen’.
The programme between Donegal County Council and the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) empowers individuals and communities to engage in physical activity and outdoor pursuits, resulting in significant improvements in health and wellbeing.
These specially designed Hippocampe wheelchairs are equipped to handle a variety of terrains ensuring that individuals can safely and comfortably traverse the trails or beaches.
Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Cllr Martin Harley officially launching the Tip O’Neill Trail Enhancement works and two All Terrain/Beach Wheelchairs pictured with distinguished guests at the Tip O’Neill homestead in Drumfries, Inishowen on Saturday 16th September 2023
In addition to the wheelchairs, Donegal County Council have undertaken enhancement works along the trail to improve accessibility for all residents and visitors. These enhancements included the upgrade of over 1km of trail.
“Our mission has always been to create a healthier and more vibrant inclusive community, one that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their mobility. With the addition of two all-terrain/ beach wheelchairs, individuals with limited mobility will now have the opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of the Tip O’Neill Trail and our wonderful natural assets in Inishowen,” says Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Martin Harley.
Children and staff from iCARE – Donal Kearney with Rhys Kearney and Isla Rose Doherty, Niamh Clerkin with Jack Peirce pictured with Gabriel Doherty, Manager of Sliabh Sneacht Centre and Clodagh Murray, Donegal County Council Sláintecare Healthy Communities Inishowen Local Development Officer at the launch of Tip O’Neill Trail Enhancement Works and two All Terrain/Beach Wheelchairs
Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Community Development and Planning Services, Liam Ward expressed gratitude to the North West Community Development, Buncrana Anglers Association Angling Centre and Sliabh Sneacht Centre, including the dedicated staff across various sections of Donegal County Council and stated that “Partnership and collaboration among community groups can be incredibly powerful in addressing local issues, enhancing community well-being, and achieving common goals”.
Cathaoirleach of Inishowen Cllr Terry Crossan and Inishowen Childrens Autism Related Education (iCARE) coordinator, Niamh Clerkin both echoed “these resources can be life-changing for individuals with mobility challenges, and the happiness and improved quality of life they bring are indeed something to celebrate”.
To avoid disappointment, it is recommended that those seeking to use the new accessible all-terrain / beach wheelchairs should book these in advance via community hosts: Buncrana Anglers Association Angling Centre and Sliabh Sneacht Centre. All terrain/beach wheelchairs are free of charge however terms and conditions apply.
