On Friday, May 1^st, Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John Pratt officially launched the Beach Wheelchair Pilot Scheme at Clonea Beach.

Funded by Waterford City and County Council, the initiative has been delivered in partnership with CoMotion Mobility Solutions, who supplied the durable, lightweight, amphibious beach wheelchairs.

The wheelchairs are specially designed to provide access across sand and into the sea, enabling wheelchair users and individuals with mobility challenges to fully experience the beach environment.

Deputy Mayor Pratt said, “It is often said that the true measure of any society is how we treat the most vulnerable among us. This initiative is a clear and meaningful reflection of that principle in action. Through the collaboration of Waterford City and County Council and CoMotion Mobility Solutions, we are opening access to this wonderful beach for people who may previously have been unable to enjoy it.

Emily Ahearne with her parents Ann and Liam at the launch of the Clonea Beach Wheelchair Pilot Scheme.

“This new beach wheelchair, along with the access system that supports it, provides practical assistance for people with mobility issues. Just as importantly, it promotes dignity, independence, and inclusion.”

The Deputy Mayor also extended a warm welcome to Anne and Liam Ahearn, who, alongside their daughter Emily, a wheelchair user, played a key role in bringing the initiative to fruition.

Gabriel Hynes, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council added, “Days like today remind us how fortunate we are to have such beautiful beaches and coastline in Waterford. Spending time at the beach is an experience that should be available to everyone. 

“The introduction of the beach wheelchairs at Clonea ensures that wheelchair users and people with limited mobility can fully enjoy all that our beaches have to offer.”

The beach wheelchair is available to use by downloading the STEED app from the Google Play or App store.

Jarlath Gantly, Managing Director of CoMotion Mobility Solutions explained, “The objective of the STEED mobility app is to allow access to specially adapted equipment for users where and when they need it. Quite often essential equipment is available, but gaining access to this equipment is complex, which in turn generates an additional obstacle for users with reduced mobility. 

“The STEED app allows access to our solar powered smart cabinet in Clonea in a matter of seconds, where the beach wheelchairs are stored, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for users.”

The launch of the beach wheelchair forms part of Waterford City and County Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing accessibility and ensuring that public amenities can be enjoyed by people of all abilities.

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