As the Deputy may be aware I recently announced that the commencement of the Vehicle Clamping Act 2015 will be effective from 1 June 2017.
The Act designates the National Transport Authority (NTA) as the statutory regulator for clamping and the NTA will now publish draft Regulations and invite submissions from members of the public.
The Act will benefit people through providing a robust regulatory framework for vehicle clamping and importantly will also allow for the establishment of statutory complaints and appeals procedures. The Act will I believe address the type of issues referred to in the Deputy's question.
Specifically, the Act will provide for:
- regulation of clamping and related activities;
- establishment of a two-tier appeals process to hear appeals against clamping or relocation;
- provision of appropriate signage in places where clamping is operated;
- setting of maximum clamp release and vehicle relocation charges;
- establishment of a code of practice; and
- provision of necessary enforcement and investigate powers to investigate and prosecute any alleged breaches of regulations made.
Following the completion of the consultation period I have referred to and consideration of any submissions received, the NTA will then assume all its new responsibilities effective from 1 October, 2017.