Conor’s campaign gets big DkIT result
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) unveiled a brand new, fully accessible changing and bathroom facility which has been constructed at its campus.
The new purpose-built facility is a vital new resource for DkIT students and staff with disabilities who have complex needs.
The new accessible changing unit goes beyond a conventional wheelchair-accessible toilet, in that it includes additional assistive technology of a hoist, height adjustable adult-sized changing bench, height accessible basin and toilet. Ultimately it will give students and staff with disabilities more space and the right equipment to take care of personal hygiene, in safety and in comfort.
Speaking today, DkIT President Michael Mulvey, PhD, said,We are delighted to open this new facility to our students and staff today. DkIT is committed to developing a culture of inclusivity within our institute and this is an important step in making sure our campus and our region is accessible for students with diverse needs. Our aim is to ensure that all students, irrespective of their background, have equal access to Higher Education and receive the necessary resources and facilities to enable them to study and learn with independence, safety and dignity.’
‘We acknowledge that unfortunately, we did experience some delay in getting this facility ready for public use, however we are now delighted with the finished work. The new unit has been completed to an extremely high standard and has been well received by students and staff alike. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our student community for their patience and understanding during this transition period and I would like thank our neighbour, O Fiaich Institute of Further Education, for their support in sharing facilities over the past year.’
The development of DkIT’s new accessible changing unit was initiated by the institute’s Disability Office. The new facility is located on the ground floor in the Main Restaurant building and includes: Height-adjustable, adult-sized changing bench, Ceiling track hoist system, adequate space for a person with disabilities and up to two assistants, centrally located toilet with space both sides for assistants, and a privacy screen.
DkIT BA (Hons) in Arts student, Conor Byrne from Clogherhead, Co Louth campaigned for such a facility to be installed on campus.
Conor welcomed the launch, saying: ‘It is fantastic to have such a facility on campus. It is vital that accessible units such as these are available to students, like myself, so that we can have independence like everyone else to learn, socialise and participate in student life. I am pleased with the work that has been completed and I would like to see more of these types of facilities available across the country.’