Because alpine skiing should not be reserved for able-bodied people, the Department of Social Affairs and Health has presentated a ski tandem to the Monegasque Ski Federation, in the presence of several members of the Government and representative associations.

The tandem ski is suitable for people who, due to their handicap or their loss of mobility, cannot ski on their own. The goal is to provide maximum autonomy and pleasure to people with disabilities. Advances in technology have made it possible to introduce new, more efficient and comfortable devices.

“The ski tandem allows you to discover the joys of skiing in complete safety,” the Minister responsible for the initiative said.

Didier Gamerdinger, Minister of Social Affairs and Health, added that “the Government wished to give the Monegasque Ski Federation the means to acquire a ski tandem so that people with disabilities or reduced mobility can ski safely on the slopes. They will be able to enjoy the surrounding panoramas and experience winter sports in their own way.”

Disabled users will be guided by specially trained professionals from the Monegasque Ski Federation.

Jacques Pastor, Technical Director of the Monegasque Ski Federation said: ”Another important advantage lies in being able to enjoy winter sports and winter sports with the family. Very often the person with a disability is condemned to wait at the bottom of the slopes and one of the family members feels obliged to stay with him. Thanks to this device, everyone stays together.”

ORIGINAL SOURCE & PHOTO: Monaco Government Press Service