Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government José Herrera launched a €1.5m scheme for local governments to finance capital projects in favour of better accessibility and mobility within the community. This funding scheme is a direct investment in improving people’s quality of life.
Minister Herrera stated that adequate accessibility in the locality is crucial for residents in order for them to be able to meet their daily needs. He stated that local governments have an important role to play in all this since they themselves are managing the communities where we live, work or frequent.
Minister Herrera said that that we need to see communities which create an atmosphere whereby regardless of one’s abilities, age and needs, every person in the community can have the necessary facilities for a more accessible life.
Minister Herrera mentioned that some of the projects that could be financed by this funding scheme include: the provision of intra-community transport, preferably electric, for residents with special and vulnerable needs; adequate accessibility in public areas which may include lifts, wheelchair spaces, ramps etc; projects and provision of equipment to encourage recreational, physical and sporting activities for vulnerable individuals and those with special needs; amongst other projects.
“The investment of €1.5 million is intended to implement this concept. We are turning to local governments and giving them the tools to carry out initiatives in their towns and cities that will strengthen the sense of inclusion,” stated Minister Herrera.
