An Post issued a stamp to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Irish Wheelchair (IWA). The Irish Wheelchair Association was founded on 10 November, 1960, when a group of eight wheelchair users came together in the Pillar Room of the Mater Hospital, Dublin.

The individuals who came together were driven by one similar cause; “to improve the lives of people with physical disabilities living in Ireland”.

Since its foundation, the IWA has played a key role in bringing many improvements and changes to the lives of people with physical disabilities in Ireland. Today, the IWA provides services nationally, including 57 research and outreach centres; personal assistant services, motoring advice, assessment and tuition; youth services, training and education; respite and holidays; wheelchair sales and rental; as well as sports and advocating for legislative changes.

From its modest beginnings in 1960, the IWA has grown to a vibrant network of 20,000 members and over 2,000 staff, as well as many dedicated volunteers. The ethos of the IWA is the same today as it was in 1960; focused on the needs of the individual and directed by its members.

Title: 50th Anniversary of the Irish Wheelchair Association
Date of Issue: 8 September 2010
Country: Ireland
Denominations: 55c

Source: www.irishstamps.ie