Paws up for blind rights
The people of Cork are being asked to “show their paw!”
Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is asking businesses across the country to take part in the Show your Paw for Access Rights campaign by displaying special window stickers.
The stickers show support for the recognition of the legal right of guide dog and assistance dog owners to access and participate in society under both Irish equality legislation, the Equal Status Acts, 2000-2018, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
A survey conducted by Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind late last year revealed that 83% of guide dog and assistance dog owners have had a negative experience when trying to access and participate in services and amenities, despite being legally entitled to do so.
Tim O'Mahony, CEO of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, explained: “Since we began our campaign in December to highlight the issue around access rights there have been significant improvements in awareness amongst businesses.”
The CEO added:“We're now looking for continued support by encouraging businesses and organisations to prominently display our Paws window sticker.”
“By doing so, businesses are demonstrating to their staff, customers, and visitors that they are complying with legislation and ensuring our clients can have the same experience and service as others take for granted,” he concluded.
Stickers can be obtained by emailing Access@GuideDogs.ie.