asked the Minister for Finance why the parking of motor vehicles is permitted in Dublin Castle outside the line in the front of Trinity Church in contravention of the prohibition painted on the yard surface at public expense; if he is aware of the frequent obstruction of vehicles which park in accordance with the regulations by vehicles which ignore them; and if remedial action will be taken.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Castle Parking Regulations.
7.
Warnings are issued to the owners of cars which are found to be incorrectly parked at Dublin Castle. Without the employment of a number of full-time attendants which in present circumstances would not be justified it is not possible to exercise effective control over the parking.
For some time past the parking space has had to be restricted because of building operations but the basic difficulty springs from the fact that the number of car owners wishing to avail themselves regularly of the parking facilities is now much too high in relation to the available space. The time has, therefore, come when serious consideration must be given to the question of a reduction in the number of permits for parking at the Castle.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary indicate to whom the permits are issued?
There are about 800 people with permits for 400 places.
On what basis and to whom are permits issued?
The Office of Public Works issues permits to various people in all walks of life. There is a high proportion of civil servants.
About what proportion?
I do not think I can work it out on a percentage basis. There are about 80 non-civil servants.
Out of the total?
I am speaking now from memory. There are other people such as people with a physical disability of one kind or another. I have come across a number of applications from such people and granted them because of the physical handicap.
May members of the public apply for a permit?
Yes, anybody.
These are all separate questions.