Landmark Letterkenny facility built entirely by team with disabilities
A significant milestone in inclusive development was celebrated with the official opening of state-of-the-art accessible toilets and changing place facility at Letterkenny Retail Park.
While the unit provides essential infrastructure for the town’s busiest shopping area, the project stands out for its groundbreaking delivery: the facility was constructed entirely by a trailblazing team of tradespeople with disabilities.
From plumbers and electricians to carpenters, the construction team proved that those typically viewed as "service users" are, in fact, highly skilled "service providers." Michael Holden MBE, CEO of AccessoLoo, noted that the project highlights the vital importance of recognising the professional contributions of the disability community in shaping their own environments. He emphasised that by having people with disabilities build the very facilities they use, the project proves they are experts capable of delivering high-quality public infrastructure.
The ceremony was marked by a poignant tribute to the late Catherine Chan, a tireless local disability advocate who passed away in 2023. Catherine was the first to propose a Changing Places unit for the area, and her legacy of campaigning for a more inclusive Donegal was at the heart of the day’s celebrations.
Councillor Jimmy Kavanagh expressed pride in the completion of the facility, a project he had long championed and formally proposed through the Council. Cathaoirleach Paul Canning commended the vital work of the Environment team and the Council’s Access Officer, while noting the essential role the Disability Strategy Committee plays in ongoing efforts to promote inclusion across the county. Cllr Ciaran Brogan further highlighted the collective vision that brought the project to fruition, specifically mentioning the great cooperation of the Retail Park in the ongoing management of the facility.
Michael Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig, an active campaigner for such facilities, expressed his disappointment that he could not attend the ceremony due to a Municipal District meeting, but welcomed the delivery of the landmark project. Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed refreshments provided compliments of Kernans Bistro, which were kindly organised for the event by Cllr Pauric McGarvey.
This landmark facility powerfully underscores the message of the recent “Put Us To Work” campaign, a partnership between Donegal County Council and the Donegal Centre for Independent Living (DCIL). By delivering this project to the highest professional standards, the team has proven that the only thing missing for the disability community is opportunity, not ability.
The standard accessible toilets are open during business hours, while the specialised Changing Places unit requires a universal key for access. Keys are available to purchase through local organisations including DCIL, IWA, Cara House, Cairde Le Chéile and Little Angels School.