In any civilised society toilet facilities are made available where all citizens, no matter what their level of ability, can attend to the most basic of bodily functions and relieve themselves in a dignified, private and hygienic manner.
The proposed West Gate Vision development plans include public toilets but Independent Councillor Paddy Mc Quillan insists that a special “Changing Places” toilet facility must be included in the development.
Changing Places toilet facilities are different from standard accessible toilets in that they provide extra equipment such as a hoist and an adult sized changing bench. Despite the financial wealth of the country though, there are very few Changing Places in Ireland.
Paddy is part of the Changing Places for Drogheda committee and has been actively campaigning for this facility that meets the needs of people with specific disabilities.
“We all saw and welcomed the fantastic images released of the proposal for the West Gate Vision, but we need to ensure that this public space is socially inclusive for all” McQuillan said.
“To make this completely inclusive for all, a changing places facility must be included in the development. I called for one to be included in the new council offices that are under construction but the council refused.
“We cannot miss the opportunity that has been presented to us to have one included in the West Gate Vision.”
Public toilets will be welcomed in the town and Paddy believes that this is a chance for Drogheda to send out a clear message.
“This is our chance to show the country that we are committed to having our newest public space inclusive for all.
“Denying people access to a changing places facility is denying them the right to participate in social, cultural and economic activity.
“Individuals that require the use of changing places facilities should have access to them. This is a modern society and we should be providing for the most vulnerable members of our communities.”
