<https://www.rte.ie/author/883835-brian-odonovan/> By Brian O'Donovan
Work & Technology Correspondent
Google Ireland has opened a new hub at its Dublin base where engineers and
researchers will work on technology to help people with disabilities.
The 'Accessibility Discovery Centre' will facilitate tours that will allow
members of the public to see examples of new technologies empowering people
with disabilities via a series of interactive exhibits and gaming zones.
The centre was built in consultation with local partners including Spinal
Injuries Ireland, ADHD Ireland, the National Disability Authority, Fighting
Blindness and Googles internal Disability Alliance employee resource group.
"The Accessibility Discovery Centre isn't just a place where we will build
better products and services - it's also a medium through which we can
engage more effectively with different disability communities to better
understand and address their needs," said Christopher Patnoe, Accessibility
and Disability Inclusion, Google.
"The new space can break down barriers and will ultimately change lives for
the better," Mr Patnoe said.
Philip Quinlan of Spinal Injuries Ireland said social isolation is a big
issue for people with spinal cord injuries and that gaming is a great way to
overcome this.
"By setting up this centre, Google is supporting young men and women with
injuries to socially engage with friends and peers online, helping them to
overcome the challenge of social isolation," Mr Quinlan said.
This is Googles first Accessibility Discovery Centre in the EU.
Academic, community or charitable/non-profit organisations who wish to visit
the Google Ireland Accessibility Discovery Centre can email:
adc-dublin@xxxxxxxxxx <mailto:adc-dublin@xxxxxxxxxx>
RTÉ Technology.
