'We need this in Donegal - people should be able to get out and enjoy the scenery'
The equipment aims to enable accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with various mobility levels - the bikes are available in Leitir, Glenveagh and Annagry
Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, visited Scioból an Phobail in Annagry to officially launch new inclusive cycling equipment.
“Something as simple as this that can give people confidence and help them go cycling, giving encouragement and ability,” Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, said. “This is a good launch today, a positive initiative.”
Claire Louise McDevitt was behind the lobbying for bikes that could facilitate wheelchairs for the community. “We need this in our community, we need this in Donegal and people should be able to get out and enjoy the scenery.”
Local Councillor Michéal MacGiolla Easbuig was also at the forefront of the initiative. “I'd like to thank everybody who came along today, from all the community groups who worked tirelessly to better our community, the business community, local councillors, Comhairle Contae Dhún na nGall,” he said. “I believe that the three bicycles secured will be of great additional benefit to people of all abilities.”
The project is funded by Sláintecare and forms a part of the Healthy Communities Programme. The funding awarded for this project was €27,000. “Through Slaintecare funding, this initiative has provided three wheelchair accessible bikes placed across the North-west Gaeltacht, enabling people with limited mobility to enjoy cycling,” Caithorleach of Glenties, MD, Councillor Michael McClafferty said.
At the three locations, Annagry, Leitir and Glenveagh, there are cycling routes available. The old railway route, Donegal Cycling Way and Grass Roots Social Enterprise Centre respectively,
“These projects will also encourage greater use of our greenways and real value to the expanding network of cycle routes across the county.”