The path is named after local disability activist, and an MCS Case Management Client, Matthew McGrath, who has been pushing for all beaches to be more disability friendly.
“It’s important for people like me and for all the people that love to walk that path,” Matthew said.
Matthew began working on this project four years ago while he was in Transition Year in Gorey Community School and now at 21 years old, he’s delighted that the project has come to fruition.
Matthew and a number of locals in Ballymoney met with Senator Malcolm Byrne, Wexford County Council, Coastal Engineer, George Colfer and Caroline Horan of Wexford County Council over two years ago to see how access to the beach could be improved.
A disabled toilet was installed, disability parking was improved and a beach wheelchair is also available at the beach now. Earlier this year, money became available to upgrade the access path.
Senator Byrne thanked the team involved in making the improvements, especially Matthew who through his enthusiasm and commitment saw the project through to completion. He also thanked the Stafford family for the donation of new benches along the walk.
Matthew thanked Wexford County Council’s Engineer Eoin Colfer, Cllr Andrew Bolger and Senator Malcolm Byrne for all of their help getting this project off the ground. Matthew has also set up his own website called ‘Wheeleasy beaches” in relation to accessibility to beaches in Ireland. Take a look at the site (link below) and please sign Matthews petition.
Huge congratulations to Matthew and all of the team involved with Matthews Way such a fantastic project.
We look forward to updating this post when ‘Matthews Way'” has its official Plaque placed onsite with images of the day.