Statement by Cllr David Hollis, Macedon TUV representative on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council:
“I wholeheartedly back and welcome the new reduced pricing structure for disabled people in respect of the Council leisure facilities across the Antrim and Newtownabbey borough.
“It is vitally important that access to and use of the leisure facilities is as easy as possible and actively promoted so that there is no barrier for those who are disabled to use them.
“I propose that Council now needs to go a step further. As it stands disabled person needs a GP letter to gain the reduced rate – I believe Council should provide leaflets to all GP Surgeries and Health Centres across the borough, that can be stamped by the GP to confirm the disability while they are with the patients. That would make the process a lot simpler for all involved.
“In addition, if a disabled person needs the help of a carer then that person should be admitted to the leisure facilities to assist them free of charge.
“I would encourage all who qualify for this reduced pricing to use the new system when it comes into effect in April 2016.”