Culture and Tourism Ministry announced that research and development works for disabled access in the culture and tourism sectors have been carried out "non-stop." In his written statement, Minister of Culture and Tourism Ömer Çelik claimed that works intended to ease the life of disabled citizens have been put into practice at museums with TL 2,213,900 ($1,016,100) worth of funds being allocated for the renovation of museums, exhibition halls, the landscape planning of ruins and construction of new museums over the last 10 years.
Within this scope, he noted arrangements were made at 44 museums and two ruins intended for the accessibility of disabled people. Çelik said the ministry conducted projects to "ensure the accessibility of 10 museums with TL 454,165 worth of funds in the last two years." "These museums, with the necessary equipment, have been turned into accessible places for disabled visitors. We are planning to undertake renovations in five more museums and five ruins intended for the disabled by the end of 2014," said Çelik. He pointed out that libraries were also remodeled for disabled people.
The "Talking Library" and "Visually Disabled Service Center" were put into service at the National Library. Citizens can access the audio books in the catalogue through the library's website. He pointed out that the elderly population is regarded as "disabled" in the tourism industry due to their limitation of movement. He said that this age group in European countries has the opportunity of travel regardless of their budget and health thus, disabled tourism holds an important place in Turkey's tourism. "We value coordinating with central and local administrations to put laws and regulations into force, working systematically and carrying out sufficient and accurate practices within the frame of 'Accessibility Strategy and National Action Plan.' Hotels and holiday camps with a large capacity have to follow certain rules. Our ministry advices and encourages smaller facilities to make the necessary remodelings for disabled guests," Çelik concluded.
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