Taoiseach Simon Harris Opens New Sensory Room at Dublin Airport, Enhancing Accessibility

Taoiseach Simon Harris has inaugurated a new sensory room at Dublin Airport, aimed at providing a more inclusive travel experience for passengers with sensory needs, including those with autism, dementia, and cognitive impairments.

New Sensory Room in Terminal 1

Located near the 200 gates in Terminal 1, the new sensory room at Dublin Airport is designed to offer a calming and supportive environment for passengers who may experience sensory overload. This facility complements an existing sensory room in Terminal 2, ensuring that passengers throughout the airport have access to these essential services.

Features of the Sensory Room

The sensory rooms are equipped with a variety of features to meet different needs, including:

• Relaxing music and mood lighting
• A bubble wall and bean bags for comfort
• Digital display panels and textured flooring
• Memory and motor skill games

These features can be customized to create either a calming or stimulating environment, depending on the needs of the individual.

‘Important Flyer’ Program

In addition to the sensory rooms, Dublin Airport offers the ‘Important Flyer’ program. This initiative provides wristbands or lanyards to passengers with sensory issues, alerting staff that they may require additional assistance during their journey.

Statements from Officials

Taoiseach Simon Harris, while unveiling the new facility, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Today marks a milestone in Dublin Airport’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all passengers. The opening of this new sensory room is proof of daa’s commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their sensory needs, can travel in comfort and with dignity.”

Gary McLean, Dublin Airport’s Managing Director, echoed these sentiments: “The opening of our second sensory room is a significant step towards making Dublin Airport a more inclusive space. It is essential that we cater to the needs of all our passengers, ensuring their journey is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.”

Design by Sensory Pod

The sensory rooms were designed by Robert Byrne of the Sensory Pod, a Dublin-based company specializing in creating affordable, calming spaces for both children and adults. This collaboration underscores Dublin Airport’s dedication to providing world-class facilities for all travelers.