Parliament: People with disabilities to have better access to sports facilities and museums

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu tries shooting hoops in a wheelchair, under the guidance of the Wheelchair Basketball association members at a para sports day event. PHOTO: MARCUS TAN FOR THE SUNDAY TIMES

SINGAPORE - People with disabilities will soon have greater access to sports facilities and museums, said Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu on Thursday (March 9).

Inclusive gyms - which have equipment for users of all abilities - will be introduced at ActiveSG sports centres in Bedok, Jurong West, Tampines and Toa Payoh, and are expected to be ready by 2018.

This is part of the Government's Disability Sports Master Plan, which was announced last year and aims to encourage more people with disabilities to pick up sport.

There is currently an inclusive gym at the Enabling Village, a community space in Redhill where people with disabilities can shop, eat, access services and attend training.

Meanwhile, museum staff, docents and volunteers will receive more training this year on how to work with people with special needs, said Ms Fu during the debate on her ministry's budget.

She said museums here have also become more accessible for people with disabilities.

For instance, the National Gallery has monthly tours led by a docent and a sign language interpreter.

At Imaginarium - the Singapore Art Museum's annual contemporary art show for children - many of the works can be explored using touch or hearing, so visitors with hearing or vision loss can appreciate the works.

Said Ms Fu: "With these developments, everyone can participate more fully in sports and the arts."

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