Clear paths for wheelchair users and others on agenda for this year’s Make Way Day

Council officials and Garda Carmilla Corbett out in Mullingar on Friday for Make Way Day, an event led by the Disability Federation of Ireland that aims to highlight issues people with disabilities have when using shared public spaces, such as cars parked on footpaths, bikes parked in unauthorised areas, and bins left on paths.

The campaign encourages people to take photos and videos while out on the streets, highlighting obstacles that block the way.

At the Atrium in the County Buildings, before their walk, Ann Myler of Westmeath County Council stated: “Today is all about raising awareness and reminding ourselves how small obstacles on our streets and public spaces can create big barriers for people with disabilities.

We have two routes planned out, and I’m leading one, and another colleague is leading the other.

The main aim today is to keep an eye out for anyone blocking a footpath, whether that be a car, or anything else that makes it difficult for people who are wheeling, and who may need to go off-road, which is unsafe.

"It’s just to try and raise awareness and be conscious about this.”