Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2017
1169. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has proposed amending legislation to allow electric cars utilise preferential public parking and pay reduced parking fees on public metering in towns and cities, for example, in order to promote environmentally friendly modes of transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14178/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Road Traffic Act, 1994 gives local authorities the power to make bye-laws governing the type of paid parking controls in their areas. Some local authorities currently allow free designated parking for a period of time while a plug-in electric vehicle is charging. It is a matter for each individual authority to consider how to treat fees on public metering along with charges in relation to parking in designated charging bays.
I am, of course, committed to exploring mechanisms to encourage increased take up of electric vehicles. My Department, together with the Department for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, have convened an Interdepartmental Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) Task Force to consider the range of measures and options available to Government for the purpose of accelerating the deployment of low carbon technologies, especially EVs, in line with the "Programme for a Partnership Government" commitment.
The LEV Task Force has begun its work and it will review the full suite of possible measures to encourage increased take up of LEVs. The role of public parking and parking charges will be considered in this context. The Task Force also intends to provide an opportunity for stakeholders and members of the public to contribute to the issues considered. Information about progress being made by the Taskforce will be available on my Department's website.
