Dundalk FC urged to improve wheelchair visibility for ‘loyal fans’

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

A call has gone out to Dundalk F.C to improve viewing access for wheelchair users who are “loyal fans” missing the action at matches in Oriel Park.

Cllr. Maeve Yore raised the issue at the October meeting of Dundalk Municipal District, where she asked Louth County Council if there was anything they could do to liaise with Dundalk FC “to sort out wheelchair viewing access for loyal supporters.”

"They have been denied visibility again since the start of the season, and since the new owners took over.”

She hit out at what she described as “no communication, collaboration or consultation with wheelchair users.”

“They can’t walk, they can’t see… as they are in a wheelchair.”

A council spokesman told the meeting that he wasn’t sure what role the local authority would have, but they would look at contacting Dundalk F.C to advise the issue had been raised.

In response to the claims a Dundalk FC spokesperson said: “Accessibility at Oriel Park matters to us. We’ve been in consistent contact throughout the season with our Disabilities Officer, Jane McDermott, who is herself a wheelchair user, to identify issues and improve the matchday experience. The suggestion that there has been no communication or consultation does not reflect our experience.

“We would welcome a call or meeting with Cllr Maeve Yore at her convenience to discuss any specific concerns and agree practical next steps. Our aim is simple: wheelchair users should have clear, safe sightlines and feel fully included at Oriel Park.”