Shannon Municipal District has introduced a new piece of inclusive playground equipment, the Ability Swing, to its existing playground at Tír na nÓg in Shannon town.
The Ability Swing is suitable for children who use a wheelchair and it comprises a wheelchair platform and swing frame. The enclosed wheelchair swing is positioned near to the centre of the playground and can be exclusively opened by an independent access key, making it very safe and secure for users.
Cllr Michael Begley, Cathaoirleach of Shannon Municipal District, commented that, “this fully fenced playground is a great choice for children of all age groups and, with the recent addition of the Ability Swing, Shannon Municipal District is very proud of the facility. The provision of high-quality play options is fundamental for all the children using our playgrounds.”
This additional piece of playground equipment will enhance the existing play facilities which incorporate a soft flooring play surface throughout and over 12 other different pieces of equipment. Tír na nÓg playground also incorporates a sensory communications board as well as a broad range of imaginative equipment such as multi-play slide, cradle swings, roundabout, junior multi-activity slide, gyro unit, basket swing and many more fun pieces.
Cllr Donna McGettigan said, “the provision of the Ability Swing was the culmination of discussions with interested community groups and parents and was funded through the General Municipal Allocation (GMA) in Shannon MD and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. Tír na nÓg playground in Shannon is the perfect space to relax and have great fun with your children.”
Cllr Gerry Flynn said that “the importance of play for our children cannot be underestimated in their development and the provision of high-quality inclusive play equipment is a proactive approach to ensuring this happens.”
Source: Clare County Council
