Why disabled punters are not at the races
We think not. We attended Mallow Races on Saturday, Jan 4 (we being my husband, my 15-year-old son, my 10-year-old wheelchair-bound son and myself).
In the new stand, just in front of the finish line, there is a platform which has a large blue sign, ‘Wheelchairs only’ on the ramp. When we went towards it for the second race, it was full, but not one wheelchair person was to be seen. I pushed my son onto the ramp and we got out to the front rail. (He loves racing and has the odd flutter).
I asked the people on the platform if they realised that it was for wheelchairs. One person out of about 10 said she didn’t know this and went out, while the rest ignored me.
I counted four other wheelchair-dependent people at the races. This platform was just big enough for all of them, but they didn’t avail of it. Why?
When I saw the huge red brick building with its fine stand to the front and contrasted it with our rickety platform, I realised Ireland is still very far behind in its efforts to treat people equally.
None of this surprises disabled people who frequently find reserved car park spaces occupied by the selfish able-bodied, while wheelchair users cannot get over big kerbs or onto footpaths thanks to inconsiderate local authorities.
Mary and Jamie Griffin,
Main Street,
Castlemartyr,
Co Cork.
