SHANNON Municipal District has introduced a new piece of inclusive playground equipment to the Tír na nÓg playground.
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.
Councillor Michael Begley, Cathaoirleach of Shannon Municipal District, said, “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 includes a soft flooring play surface throughout and more than 12 other different pieces of equipment.
The 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 other fun pieces.
Councillor 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.”
Councillor Gerry Flynn said it is a great addition.
“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.”
Owen Ryan has been a journalist with the Clare Champion since 2007, having previously worked with a number of other publications in Limerick, Cork and Galway. His first book will be published in December 2024.