The South West

The South West of Ireland, encompassing counties Cork and Kerry, offers varying levels of accessibility. While efforts have been made to improve accessibility, particularly in urban areas, rural locations may present challenges. As of 2023, no comprehensive accessibility audit of the region is publicly available, making it advisable for travelers with disabilities to plan ahead and contact venues directly.

Ireland adheres to the EU Accessibility Act, which aims to improve access for people with disabilities. The Building Regulations 2010 Technical Guidance Document M provides standards for accessibility in new buildings and renovations. However, implementation can be inconsistent, especially in older structures and rural areas. The Disability Act 2005 mandates public bodies to make their services accessible, but private businesses are not bound by the same strict requirements.

Cork Airport and Kerry Airport serve the region, both offering assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Irish Rail provides accessible train services between major towns, with 24-hour notice required for assistance. Bus Éireann operates accessible coaches on main routes, but rural services may have limited accessibility. In Cork city, about 40% of buses were wheelchair accessible as of 2021, with plans to increase this number. Taxi services in larger towns often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles, but availability in rural areas may be limited.

Many popular attractions have made efforts to improve accessibility. Killarney National Park offers wheelchair-accessible boats and jaunting cars. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is fully accessible, with wheelchair rentals available. Cork City Gaol provides wheelchair access to most areas. However, some historical sites like Blarney Castle have limited accessibility due to their structure. It's advisable to check with individual attractions in advance for specific accessibility information.

Major hotel chains in cities like Cork and Killarney generally offer accessible rooms, but availability can be limited. As of 2023, there is no centralized database of accessible accommodations in the region. The Irish Wheelchair Association recommends contacting hotels directly to discuss specific needs. Rural B&Bs and guesthouses may have limited accessibility features. Some self-catering options, particularly newer builds, offer better accessibility but require individual verification.

1. Plan and book in advance, especially for accessible transportation and accommodation. 2. Consider renting an adapted vehicle for easier rural exploration. 3. Use the free 'Access Earth' app for crowd-sourced accessibility information. 4. Carry a European Disability Card if eligible, which can facilitate access to certain services. 5. Be prepared for uneven surfaces in historical towns and rural areas. 6. Contact the local tourist offices in Cork and Kerry for up-to-date accessibility information on specific attractions or areas.