IWA calls on Kilkenny businesses to keep access open for shoppers with disabilities Reporter: '); As Christmas approaches, Irish Wheelchair Association is asking Kilkenny local authorities and businesses to keep their pathways and disability parking clear for shoppers in wheelchairs and their families, as lockdown ends. The association has made the call as it launches its Christmas Appeal, which supports youth clubs, bus services and social club activities for people with physical disabilities across Ireland. According to Joan Carthy of Irish Wheelchair Association: "It's great to see our towns and communities reopening again and so many of our members are keen to get out and about to restock after lockdown and get their Christmas shopping done. However, necessary Covid restrictions are forcing businesses outside and onto the streets, which is a cause for concern among people with physical disabilities. We are hearing about pathways and disabled parking spaces being adapted for seating, queuing and storage. For example, our members have encountered paths blocked by outdoor dining and disabled parking spaces covered by marques.”