Accessible fishing platform opens in Enfield
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Minister for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD, joined Brian O’Donoghue, President of the Royal Enfield Coarse Angling Club, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Wayne Harding and disability advocate and outdoor adventure enthusiast, Michal Baran to officially open the new accessible fishing platform at Enfield Harbour. Photo: Barry Cronin.Image 2 of 2
Minister for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD, joined Brian O’Donoghue, President of the Royal Enfield Coarse Angling Club and disability advocate and outdoor adventure enthusiast, Michal Baran to officially open the new accessible fishing platform in Enfield. Photo: Barry CronIN.Enfield Harbour introduced the county's first ever accessible fishing platform this week, highlighting the need for more inclusive sporting facilities in Meath.
Members of the public and representatives from Meath Local Sports Partnership and Meath County Council came down to the opening which was officially opened by Minister Charlie McConalogue TD.
The chosen site in Enfield was developed under the supervision of Waterways Ireland, who manage and control this stretch of water.
With their commitment to restoring, developing, and promoting Ireland’s navigable inland waterways for public enjoyment, Waterways Ireland ensured the delivery of a high-quality, sustainable facility that marks a first for Meath.
The new facility features a wheelchair safe ramp down to the riverside and a designated space to fish and enjoy the water and surrounding nature.
Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council and Cllr Wayne Harding highlighted the importance of having facilities that everyone can enjoy, by saying: "We take these things for granted. We forget that people can't enjoy these things. It's an extraordinary thing that has happened here."
Minister Charlie McConalogue TD said: "This new fishing platform is providing a really safe, purposeful space where wheelchair users, older people and those with reduced mobility can enjoy nature and angling in comfort and with confidence."
Jean Errity, Senior Engineer, Waterways Ireland commented: “The Royal Canal is one of the most historic waterways in the country, and this project will play a small but significant role in the development of the Royal Canal and in encouraging the use of the waterway for amenity purposes.
“We believe this new platform will be a vital asset to the community of Enfield and its surroundings.”