Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2012
1191. Deputy Mary Mitchell O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered increasing the fine local authorities can impose for parking illegally in a disabled car parking space; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47422/12]
View answerThe possibility of increasing fines for parking illegally in a disabled parking space was considered as part of a review of the Disabled Parking Scheme by my Department in 2010. The review, which was conducted in consultation with key stakeholders, recommended a number of improvements to the system which have since been introduced, but did not recommend a change in the fines concerned.
The fixed charge penalty for parking illegally in a disabled parking space is, at €80, double that applying to any other parking offence. If not paid in 28 days this fine goes up to €120. If the fixed charge is not paid within 56 days, the case can be taken to court. The courts have the power to impose a fine of up to €1,000 for a first offence and up to €2,000 for a second or subsequent offence. If an individual commits a third or subsequent offence within one year, the court may impose a fine of up to €2,000 and/or a prison term of up to three months.
I am satisfied that the penalties available in law for this offence are sufficient, and that they demonstrate the seriousness with which the law regards the misuse of disabled parking facilities.
