Disabled forgotten in revamped city centre

MY wife and I have just returned from our annual holiday which we usually spend in Ireland.

During the last 25 years we have seen a transformation of the infrastructure of almost the whole of the country. The road network has improved thanks to EU funding resulting in much safer travel and less wear and tear on the car.

Sadly, all of this is offset by the lack of facilities for disabled persons.

We were in Cork city recently. It is pleasing to see the Patrick Street improvements completed. However, much to our surprise there is no provision for disabled parking.

This was quite interesting especially as the street was reopened during the Week of the Disabled. There is more than ample space for loading and taxis, but no provision for disabled people.

Cork will be European Capital of Culture next year and is bound to attract an influx of visitors, a certain number of whom will be disabled. They will be disappointed with the lack of facilities. Cork, like so many cities, seems only to pay lip service to disabled people.

Fortunately, from now on, the UK has to take account of disabled people when planning any development and all public buildings have to provide for them.

Ireland is a beautiful country and Cork is a wonderful county, so please consider the needs of disabled people.

Tony and Win Phillips

16 Ty-Isha Terrace

Blackwood

Caerphilly NP12 1ER

Wales