Review of disabled facilities at Ennis Swimming Pool to be conducted

Clare County Council have confirmed that a comprehensive review of all disabled facilities will take place at Ennis Swimming Pool to ensure that accessibility standards are upheld and so they can identify opportunities for further improvement.

This news comes after an Ennis Municipal District meeting where Fianna Fáil Councillor Antoinette Baker Bashua put forward a Notice of Motion regarding accessibility and inclusivity at the pool.

In her submission Cllr Baker Bashua said, "Concerns have been raised by residents regarding the adequacy of current provisions, including the number and quality of accessible changing areas, clear and appropriate signage, specialised equipment, and overall ease of access." 

In a written reply, Senior Executive Officer, Eoin Troy, said, "We acknowledge the importance of ensuring that Ennis Swimming Pool remains fully accessible and inclusive for all users. A wide range of facilities are currently offered for persons with disabilities, yet we acknowledge the importance of ongoing enhancements to align with evolving accessibility
standards and address the community's needs."

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The existing accessibility provisions at Ennis Swimming Pool include:

•  Disabled toilets and dressing rooms: One located in the gym with shower facilities and two poolside toilets       complemented by four showers equipped with disability aids such as shower seats.
•  Parking and entrance support: Eight designated disabled parking spaces, clearly labelled and featuring signage with a   contact number for assistance when entering the building.
•  Accessible storage and mobility support: Designated lockers at wheelchair height, marked as disabled.
•  Facility access: Elevators providing access to the downstairs pool area.
•  Wheelchair-accessible gym equipment such as Dual Motomed Machine for upper and lower body workouts and     chest press, shoulder press, pec deck, low row, and active hand straps for free weights.
•  Pool and changing accessibility: Poolside hoist and changing room hoist.
•  Emergency and reception support: Emergency evacuation chair and wheelchair-height counter at the reception   desk.
•  Additional mobility accommodations: Wheelchair shower chair and an additional wheelchair available for users with   impaired mobility (crutches, sticks, walking frames, etc).
•  Communication accessibility: An audio frequency induction loop system at the reception desk.

"While these facilities demonstrate a strong commitment to accessibility, the importance of continuous improvement is recognised. In conjunction with the planned end-of-life upgrade of the pool floor and necessary energy management enhancements, we commit to conducting a comprehensive review of all disabled facilities," Mr Troy concluded.