Ireland’s first ever Motoring Rally for disabled drivers took place in Athlone on the 18th of September, as part of the Irish Wheelchair Associations (IWA) 50th Anniversary celebrations. Over 40 drivers and co-pilots participated in this unique event, which was sponsored by Wheelchair Cars Ireland.

 
IWA established a driving school for drivers with physical disabilities in 1969. The tuition service was formed in response to the dearth in public transport available at the time and to meet the needs of IWA members who wanted greater independence and freedom. Since then the driving tuition has expanded and developed into a nationwide service, last year IWA provided a total of 4,995 driving lessons to 447 members. IWA provides advice on motoring issues to thousands of people each year from the National Mobility Centre, which is based in Clane.