Excellence through Accessibility

Excellence through Accessibility Award 2011

Here is what Olan McGowan said at the presentation of the 'Committed' award to Waterford County Council  "Waterford County Council is responsible for a broad range of public services in the county, including planning, fire, building control, library services and many more. The County Council is headquartered at the Civic Offices in the heart of Dungarvan.

Pictured accepting the award are l to r; Olan McGowan, Peter McKevitt (NDA Chairperson), Minister John Moloney, Cllr Ger Barron (Deputy County Waterford Mayor) and Frank Curran (Director of Services Waterford County Council).

The Civic Offices are located in a four-storey building, with the motor tax offices adjacent. Accessible parking bays are available at the front of the building, and in the adjacent car park. A dedicated customer services desk with both low and high counters has been established on the ground floor to provide a 'one stop shop' service for most customers. An accessible bathroom is available on the ground floor.

Council staff are regularly reminded about how to deal with requests for information in alternative formats. The web team created a video clip to inform other staff about how to make sure that information for the website will be accessible for everybody." Frank Curran, Director of Services with Waterford County Council says “We are fully committed to delivering a quality service, accessible to all.    This award recognises the work that has been done to date and the determination on the part of both management and staff to ensure total inclusiveness.    It is our intention to build on the foundations that have been laid and to strive to achieve ‘Excellence’ level.

Pictured at the awards ceremony are, l to r; David Campion (Physical Access Officer), Cllr Ger Barron (Deputy County Waterford Mayor), Rachel Neylin (Information Access Officer) and Frank Curran (Director of Services Waterford County Council).