The city of Galway is a beautiful, vibrant, and lively place, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. I was able to get a tour of the city today, where we were able to visit the Galway Cathedral and walk the bridge on the way in which I had noticed there were steep ramps but seemed to be accessible for those who wanted to visit the Cathedral or see the nature surrounding it. However, this city does seem to have its challenges when it comes to accessibility.

One of the most pressing accessibility concerns in Galway stems from its historic layout. Many parts of the city, especially the Latin Quarter and areas surrounding Eyre Square, have narrow cobbled streets, uneven pavements, and old buildings that were not designed with accessibility in mind. These conditions can pose hazards for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility issues, as well as for those who are blind or visually impaired. I had noticed while being in the city center, the shops and restaurants are small which may be difficult to navigate through.

Overall, Galway is a city making a genuine effort to become more accessible, but the journey is ongoing. Greater investment in retrofitting old infrastructure and enforcing inclusive design across all sectors are crucial steps that need to be taken. While the spirit of community and inclusion is strong in Galway, turning these values into fully accessible environments remains a work in progress. For Galway to truly live up to its reputation as a welcoming and lively city, it must continue to prioritize the rights and needs of people with disabilities in both its planning and day-to-day governance.