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Daire Gorman, a 13-year-old Liverpool fan from Co Monaghan, was born with Crommelin syndrome, a rare condition affecting limb development. Last year, he had the opportunity to meet the Liverpool squad and then-manager Jurgen Klopp at the AXA Training Centre. However, a recent trip to see Liverpool lift the Premier League trophy at Anfield was marred by travel difficulties with Ryanair.
Shelley, Daire’s mother, said: “I ended up ringing special assistance customer services and they asked could he not go without the chair, and refused to take his chair. As a parent, you try and do your best for your children and especially children with additional needs and protect them from negativity – my child needs his wheelchair, imagine asking can he not go without it.”
Shelley continued: “He was devastated. It’s hard enough for someone in a wheelchair, especially a child with additional needs. They find it hard sometimes to fit in.”
Ryanair initially informed Daire’s mother that the power wheelchair exceeded the airline’s maximum dimensions, leading to a refusal to transport it. Although the airline later offered a refund, the situation highlighted the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities when traveling. Shelley expressed her frustration over the incident, emphasizing the emotional impact on her son, who was left feeling responsible for the situation.
The airline denied asking whether Daire could travel without his wheelchair and clarified that wheelchair boardings are managed by the Dublin Airport Authority, not individual airlines. Despite the airline’s statement, the incident sparked discussions about the need for better accommodations and understanding for travelers with disabilities.
Daire’s experience underscores the importance of ensuring accessibility and dignity for all passengers, particularly those with additional needs. As the conversation around inclusivity in travel continues, it serves as a reminder of the work still needed to create a more accommodating environment for everyone.
