“This is our chance to state that we are an all-inclusive community”
Independent Councillor Paddy McQuillan has welcomed Louth County Council’s plans for the proposed Westgate Vision development but says it should include a ‘Changing Places’ toilet facility for people with severe disabilities.
“The €20,000 cost of a ‘Changing Places’ toilet pales into insignificance compared to the millions being spent on Westgate Vision” he said. “This is our chance to state that we are an all-inclusive community.”
“Overall, there has been a very positive response from the people of Drogheda to the proposed Westgate Vision development” Cllr. McQuillan said, adding that “It will transform that end of the town along with the investment for Narrow West Street. The Westgate Vision is currently out to tender and if fulfilled will be a remarkable public space for our citizens.
“Very positive indeed” McQuillan remarked. “The proposal presented to the elected representatives is to include new public toilets. I believe that if we are to make the Westgate Vision inclusive for all, then consideration must be taken to include a Changing Places facility for people with specific disabilities.
“I have long been calling and campaigning for such a facility for the largest town in Ireland. Individuals that require the use of Changing Places facilities should have access to them. We live in a modern society and we should be providing for the most vulnerable members of our communities.
“The Westgate Vision is a fantastic opportunity to state that we are an all-inclusive community.
“Providing such a facility for people with specific needs enables them participate in social, cultural and economic activity.
“The council should liaise with the Changing Places committee to explore the possibility of having such a facility included along with the new public toilets that are to be part of this much needed development.”
Changing Places toilets are completely accessible and provide sufficient space and equipment for people who are unable to use the toilet without a carer’s help. They also require special equipment including a changing bench, a hoist, toilet and wash basin installed with enough space to accommodate the wheelchair user and a carer.
