
There has been a call on Kerry County Council to provide an autism friendly area in the playground at Knockreer, in Killarney National Park.
Cllr John O’Donoghue said acessibility to all aspects of society is a major issue for some and the council should lead the way in doing all it can to ensure all citizens have equal rights.
“I am very fortunate to be a small part of a wonderful group working to make Killarney autism friendly to ensure those with additional sensory needs are catered for in our town,” he said.
Cllr O’Donoghue said many towns around the country have sensory areas in their playgrounds and he pointed to the positive work being done in the town park in Tralee.

“No child in this State should ever have to feel grateful for simply being facilitated to access the same level of care or services as their peers but the point still stands in that it shows the importance of what great things can be achieved by relatively small steps on our part,” the Kerry Independent Alliance councillor stated.
“I ask that the council would look favourably upon any request for assistance, be it financial or otherwise, if any groups come to them looking for it.
“Bunreacht na hÉireann details the rights of each child in the State to non-discrimination
and we must do all we can to facilitate this noble ideal,” he added.
Council officials said the facility at Knockreer includes a number of inclusive play opportunities including a flush carousel, a basket swing, a ground level trampoline and play panels.
They said they will continue the enhance facilities there for children with a difference, including autism-friendly certified play equipment as further funding becomes available.
The council said officials would welcome a meeting with stakeholders to discuss any opportunities to broaden the universal access of the playground at Knockreer.
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