General Information » Essential Info » People With Disabilities

According to the 2002 Census by the Statistical Office Ireland, the number of people with disabilities in Dublin city and county is 90,867, with the majority aged 60 or over. Following the Special Olympics World Games which Dublin hosted in 2003 (see p.253), the government recognised that the needs of this large group of people had not been adequately addressed and approved the first Irish National Disability Survey to be carried out after the next Census. In September 2006, the survey, based on a questionnaire covering all age groups and including comprehensive sections on aids and impairments, was carried out. While the results are due for publication in October/November 2007 (see www.cso.ie), the recognition of the necessity for such a survey is a milestone in itself. For the first time, service providers and policymakers will have the necessary data to make informed decisions on improvements.

Although many restaurants, hotels and attractions now cater to people with disabilities, Dublin is by no means as well adapted as it could be. However, the city has significantly developed its accessibility over the past number of years. Dublin Bus operates wheelchair accessible buses on an increasing number of routes and the majority of Dart stations are now equipped with ramps or lifts. While each Enterprise rail service has a customer services attendant on hand, Iarnród Éireann’s Mobility Impaired Liaison Office has been created especially to accommodate any mobility-impaired passengers requiring further assistance. Contact them at least 24 hours before your journey (1850 366 222, www.iarnrodeireann.ie). Guide dogs are welcome on all rail services.

Parking can still prove difficult, although newer outlets usually reserve spots for challenged drivers near the entrance to the main shopping area.

For tourists with special needs, Fáilte Ireland has developed an accommodation rating scheme, featuring four categories including access for wheelchairs and access for ambulant people incapable of climbing stairs, see www.visitdublin.com/disabled for more. All state airports are obliged to provide facilities for people with special needs, and Dublin airport strives to continually update its services. For further information, refer to www.dublinairport.ie. See also schools (p.150), and activities(p.293).