A motion calling for the installation of communication boards within local playgrounds to allow for inclusion and independence for non-verbal children was raised by Fine Gael Councillor, John Dolan, at a recent virtual sitting of Athlone-Moate Municipal District.
“I noted this initiative being implemented by Dublin County Council and feel that it would be wholly beneficial to all non-verbal children within our Municipal District.
“It is a simple device to erect and I would recommend the installation of two communication boards initially, one within the playground at Burgess Park and a second at Ballinahown playground to suit the urban and rural communities.
“I spoke to a number of relevant groups and they were of the view that such a development would be most progressive and beneficial to non-verbal children who visit our local playgrounds.
“Costings would have to be ascertained but I believe that this would be a worthy initiative,” Cllr Dolan asserted.
Affording their support to the initiative, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke, Cllr Louise Heavin and Cllr Frankie Keena stated that it was a motion of great merit which necessitated further development with the eventual realisation of such a communications board within all playgrounds within the District.
Responding, Mr Pat Nally, District Engineer, stated that the costings for such an initiative would be realised in due course noting that there were 13 playgrounds located within the Athlone-Moate Municipal District.
