‘Significant rise in operating costs’ sees Shopmobility services leave Liffey Valley

DISABLED Drivers Association of Ireland has announced the closure of its Shopmobility services in Liffey Valley, having shut its doors on October 31.

DDAI provided mobility aids to shopping centres around the county, including Dundrum and Whitewater, with its Blanchardstown branch and online store continuing to operate as normal.

The service noted “a significant rise in operating costs” as the reason for the closures, which was deemed a “very difficult decision for the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland.”

Councillor Daniel Loftus expressed concern following the closure of the Shop Mobility Services after 25 years in operation in Liffey Valley, saying he was

“saddened” by the decision.

“I have contacted both Shop Mobility and the Disabled Drivers Associations of Ireland, and they have confirmed this is due to funding problems but will be able to keep their service in Blanchardstown up and running.”

Cllr Loftus said he has been in contact with Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Emer Higgins, to seek government intervention and ensure individuals with disabilities can seek the mobility aids they need.

“If government intervention or a replacement service cannot be found, this will be another example of people with mobility issues being marginalised and their task of just living their lives being made harder.”

“This closure is a travesty for our community where so many people use this service to get around and will not be able to do so otherwise.”

DDAI thanked all its service users for their support over the “many years” and shared that Liffey Valley Centre Management are “working on a long-term solution so that every visitor can enjoy a comfortable and accessible experience.”

Liffey Valley Shopping Centre’s Customer Care Team are happy to help any individual seeking mobility support ahead of a trip and can be contacted in advance to ensure aid is of easy access.