Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 July 2022
122. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on plans to introduce a cap on the maximum daily charge for car parking for patients and visitors at public hospitals as outlined in the Programme for Government; the timeline that he is working towards for implementation of this commitment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37489/22]
View answerI am aware that hospitals that charge parking fees are very cognisant of the financial implications of parking costs for patients and their families, particularly for those with long-term illnesses.
Consequently, some hospitals have introduced a maximum daily fixed parking charge and reduced rate parking for long-term patients and visitors for whom the payment of the full rate would cause hardship.
The Programme for Government makes a commitment to introduce a cap on the maximum daily charge for patients and visitors at all public hospitals, where possible and to introduce flexible passes in all public hospitals for patients and their families. I am very aware of the financial burden this issue can cause some patients and families. Accordingly, my Department and the HSE are currently examining the issue.
