Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Fianna Fail)

The Leader is aware that this country is very blessed with many beautiful beaches, many of which are in both our constituencies. For anyone who can get to a beach, there is a big feeling of well-being so it is very important. I rise today to talk about accessibility on a beach - not necessarily to it. Many beaches have a buggy service, which is way better than nothing, but, unfortunately, some people with a disability find it hard to get on buggies. They have to get out of their wheelchairs and on to the buggies. This often requires a hoist, which, obviously, are not at beachesThere is now a new initiative for Blue Flag beaches, namely, the blue path or blue mat. It is a blue mat on which people can use their own wheelchair that runs from the car park right down to the beach. It is absolutely brilliant. People who can walk but are a bit compromised can also use it because it is very even. It is funded by local authorities. I call on all local authorities responsible for Blue Flag beaches to use these blue mats. I also ask the Minister to ensure there is adequate funding for this because everyone deserves a day out at the beach.