Questions over funding of facilities for disabled

Disability advocates have accused the Government of placing less worth on recreational opportunities for disabled people after a funding switch-up in Christchurch.

Greater Christchurch Regeneration Minister Megan Woods announced last Friday a range of measures to save at least $50 million from the cost of the delayed and overblown metro sports facility. Included was a measure to outsource funding for the fitout of the planned Aquatic Sensory Experience room, leaving it to the city council to source sponsorships and donations.

However, funding for the facilities in the room, specifically designed for people with significant needs and featuring a pool, lights and sounds, is still provided for.

The Earthquake Disability Leadership Group, set up to advocate for the disability sector during the rebuild, is unhappy with the development and says exactly what needs to be fundraised for is unclear.

‘‘By applying a different funding model to the Sensory Experience, the Government does not seem to value recreational opportunities for disabled people,’’ project facilitator Anna Hartnell said.

The disabled community was excited the room had been included in the facility, and Hartnell questioned what would happen if the money could not be raised. She said the room was being ‘‘singled out’’ and treated differently to other spaces in the metro sports facility.