Donegal County Council, in collaboration with local community groups, has been honoured with the prestigious All Ireland ‘Age Friendly Environment Award’ at a ceremony in Dublin attended by Chief Executive John G. McLaughlin.
Sponsored by the ‘Centre for Excellence in Universal Design’, this award recognises the efforts in Donegal to improve beach accessibility for older adults and people with disabilities, focusing on age-friendly and public realm improvements.
(Pictured above: Conor Molloy, a regular visitor to Narin beach, enjoying himself on the electric 4×4 beach wheelchair)
Through comprehensive accessibility audits of several beaches, Donegal County Council has identified short, medium, and long-term actions to improve access. These actions have included the expansion of the beach wheelchair programme and mobility equipment to 16 locations countywide, as well as the installation of boardwalks, the provision of accessible toilets and Changing Places facilities.
Pictured at the Age Friendly Awards Ceremony Donegal County Council Chief Executive John G. McLaughlin and members of Council staff are presented with the award for ‘Creating Age-Friendly & Inclusive Beaches’ in Donegal, sponsored by the Centre of Excellence in Universal Design.
Michael McGarvey, Director of Water and Environment for Donegal County Council, said, “Receiving this recognition highlights the significant progress Donegal has made in enhancing accessibility. It reflects our ongoing commitment to creating inclusive spaces that are open to everyone.” He added, “Our beaches are among the county’s greatest natural assets, and through this initiative, we are not only improving access for people with disabilities but also ensuring that our beaches are welcoming for families and anyone facing mobility challenges.”
A key element of the project’s success has been the strong collaboration with community groups, local tidy towns, businesses, and volunteers. In Narin Portnoo, Paul, and Julie Dawson, along with Mary and Michael Nicholson, have played a vital role in expanding the programme and introducing motorised beach wheelchairs, enabling independent access to the beach. Additionally, Paul has worked closely with the Council to help other communities across Donegal implement similar initiatives, further advancing accessibility throughout the county.
Trudi O’Reilly, Access Officer for Donegal County Council, highlighted the importance of partnership in achieving these results: “This award reflects the combined efforts of local communities and the various departments within Donegal County Council including Environment, Roads, Tourism and Economic and Community Development. Together, we are building a lasting network of accessible and inclusive beaches that are attracting international visitors and enriching the experience for everyone who comes to Donegal.”
Rosita Mahony, Age Friendly Programme Manager for Donegal added, “The Age Friendly Programme aims to improve the quality of life of older people throughout Donegal. This award-winning initiative removes barriers to participation and provides an age friendly environment for older people to participate in community activities and by doing so, our communities are better equipped to become great places to age in and grow older.”
