Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) in partnership with Waterways Ireland and supported by Inland Fisheries Ireland recently hosted a national angling competition at the 12th Lock, Grand Canal, Newcastle Road in Lucan, Co Dublin . The annual competition, which is now in its twelfth year, is the largest event of its kind in the country. The competition saw over 200 anglers, with physical disabilities and other mobility impairments compete in the shore based fishing event.
The fishing event which is organised by IWA’s Day Centre located on the Newcastle Road, Lucan has grown in popularity in recent years due to the 12th Lock’s ideal location for fishing, which has safe access for people with disabilities, and a secure waters-edge suitable for wheelchairs. The competition saw anglers travel from all over Ireland to participate in the event, which is now a regular fixture on the Irish angling calendar.
Ciaran McLoughlin, IWA Service Coordinator Lucan explained:
“Fishing is an ideal sporting and recreational activity for people with physical and sensory disabilities. Irish Wheelchair Association regularly organise trips and fishing based holidays for members of the Association. The sport is extremely popular as it presents fewer barriers and more opportunities for people with limited mobility.
The Association are extremely proud of the annual event which is the largest fishing event in the country. Today, we have over 200 people participating in the event along the canal, and this is made possible as a result of the ongoing commitment from Waterways Ireland, Inland Fisheries and Goldfish Angling.”
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ciaran Byrne,CEO of Inland Fisheries Ireland said:
“Inland Fisheries Ireland is delighted to support this competition which has become a flagship day in the angling calendar. Angling is something which can be enjoyed at any age or ability and there is a growing recognition of the value of outdoor recreation in underpinning health and well-being.
It is fantastic to see so many anglers out today learning and taking part in the pursuit. Ireland offers a wealth of rivers and lakes as well as fantastic stocks of high-quality fish and with the right protection and conservation, our fisheries resource can have a positive impact on our health, environment and economy for generations to come.”
The IWA Day Centre in Lucan provides services to over 60 local people with disabilities on a weekly basis. For further information about the range of services Irish Wheelchair Association provides in Lucan or throughout Ireland please visit www.iwa.ie or email [email protected].
