Calls for Longford to introduce accessible car service for those who need it

Longford County Council have been called to “Liaise with County Kildare Leader Partnership to introduce a pilot initiative equivalent to the one introduced recently in partnership with GoCar, Kildare County Council, the HSE and the Department of Social Protection.

“The community car scheme provides free essential transport for those facing mobility challenges and helps people who need transport to hospital and healthcare appointments as well as community and social events.”

This motion was set forth by David Cassidy who then went on to detail the research he had put into this development.

“It started operating before Christmas and serves residents within a 10km radius of Kildare town.

“There is a dedicated phone line for the service. Individuals are picked up at their door and dropped home afterwards.

“They have a number of drivers through the community employment scheme and also volunteers.

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“For many people living in rural areas or experiencing reduced mobility, accessing essential services and attending appointments can be a challenge. This service would offer a convenient and accessible transport solution.”

The car service in Kildare is not only an essential lifeline to those who use it in the community it is also a sustainable travel service as well as accessible as it uses an electric car for journeys.

“They have started taking a lady to chemotherapy sessions, who was worried about making it to these sessions,” continued Cllr Cassidy.

“In Kildare, they are taking bookings around three weeks in advance. They are bringing people to hospitals, GP appointments and to visit relatives in nursing homes and hospitals.”

Kildare Leader Partnership hopes to expand the service across Kildare in the coming months.

Cllr Cassidy informed the chamber that the motion had been forwarded to the relevant departments.

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“I am pleased that this motion has been forwarded to Longford Community Resources to link in with Kildare Leader Resources and I will be pushing for this to be introduced to County Longford.”

When Cllr Cassidy finished speaking Samantha Healy, Longford County Council Director of Services confirmed that steps were being taken regarding the motion as well as confirming that Longford CoCo will be making contact with Kildare Leader Partnership.

The motion was supported by the council with both Cllr Garry Murtagh and Cllr Turlough McGovern voicing their support.