asked the Minister for the Environment if he proposes to introduce legislation or new regulations to control the problem of roadside traders and scrap merchants who are causing traffic and pollution problems particularly in, and adjacent to, towns, and abusing the use of car park facilities provided by local authorities; if it is his intention to introduce on-the-spot fines for such offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Roadside Traders.
117.
Legislation for the control of roadside trading is a matter for the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism. Measures to deal with pollution problems arising from such activities are the responsibility of local authorities. With regard to the traffic aspects, I am satisfied that the existing statutory provisions governing dangerous parking, obstruction of traffic, and the control of parking are adequate. Parking offences on public roads, subject to local traffic and parking bye laws, come within the "on-the-spot fines" system. The garda and the road authorities have power to remove and, if necessary, dispose of unlawfully parked vehicles. Local authorities are empowered to make bye-laws to control the use of car parks provided by them.