Older adults and people with limited mobility now have the opportunity to be driven around in a comfortable 'couch on wheels', at an easy pace, taking in the sights and sounds of nature on the Waterford Greenway, whatever the weather. As Cycling Without Age, who introduced this marvellous idea to Ireland, say 'everyone is entitled to feel the wind in their hair'!
'Saoirse' is the name of our trishaw and this name symbolises the freedom that users of our trishaw can enjoy. It communicates a positive message of Health & Activity for All. It will increase accessibility to the Waterford Greenway particularly for older adults and ultimately will have a positive impact on attitudes of the wider community to accessibility, inclusion and health for all.
The Trishaw which was funded by the Healthy Ireland Fund, is a partnership between Healthy Waterford (a subcommittee of Waterford LCDC), Waterford City & County Council, Waterford Sports Partnership and Déise Day Centre. This Trishaw will be managed by Déise Day Centre and residents will be driven by trained volunteers.We are grateful to a number of people and organisations who made the launch such a success. A special word of thanks to Harringtons Bakery of Youghal for donating a beautiful cake for the occasion and David Coleman photography who volunteered to capture special moments on the day. Thanks also to the Dungarvan Pop Up Pipe Band, who kept the crowds entertained throughout. We are grateful to Cycle Sports who have kindly agreed to keep the bike maintained and in good working order.
There are now 13 Trishaw bikes across Ireland with more on order, taking older adults out on free spins.
If you are interested in volunteering your time to pilot the Trishaw, please contact Déise Day Centre on 058 44556. To access the bike currently, you must be a member of Déise Day Centre. We hope that this will be the first of many Trishaws in County Waterford.
