Reopening of children’s shoe shops is crucial for children’s development and wellbeing – Ahearn

Fine Gael Senator Garret Ahearn has welcomed the confirmation from Government today (Wednesday) that children’s shoe shops are to reopen for fittings by appointment.

Senator Ahearn said “I welcome the inclusion of children’s shoes on the essential retail list, announced by Government today and I’m delighted to see the Minister for Health say this change will be implemented immediately, allowing children’s shoe shops to reopen for fittings by appointment.

“The proper fitting of children’s shoes is crucial to their physical development and their wellbeing and I understand the worry for parents on this subject.  I have a boy who is just over a year old and started walking recently. The first steps are the first time your child puts all their weight onto their feet so having the correct footwear is crucial.

“Purchasing a child’s first shoe is not as simple as just walking into the shop and buying a pair of shoes.  Each child has a different shape of foot and are at different levels of development.  Being fitted for the correct shoe size is critical for the child’s bone and muscle development. Some children also need to be fitted for special medical footwear.

“Children’s shoe shops are run and staffed by professionals who are trained to measure children’s feet.  It is just not possible to have a correct measurement done over the phone or online and I am pleased they will be able to resume their in-person service for children as a result of today’s decision.

“People will need to book their appointments and the shops will receive guidance from Government on the reopening.

“I want to thank the owners of children’s shoe shops who have brought this to my attention in the past week and I’m happy to see the problem resolved”, concluded Senator Ahearn.