Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1975. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Health if he will provide his response to a campaign from an organisation (details supplied) to end parking fees at acute hospitals for the families of children undergoing in-hospital treatments. [43906/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI 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.
