Operation Enable enforcing disabled parking rules
OPERATION Enable, the campaign targetting illegal use of disabled parking bays us being launched at Dundalk Gaol this morning (Tuesday)
Chief Supt for the Louth Garda Division, Christy Mangan will launch the initiative aimed at stoppring motorists parking in disabled parking bays and permit holders abusing conditions of their permits, such as using the bays despite the person with disabilities not being present in the vehicle.
Speaking on the issue recently, Cllr, Maeve Yore, an ardent disabilities campaigner, said that the problems with illegal use of disabled parking bays is an on-going issue across the county.
She encouraged all business owners and private car parks who have disabled parking spaces ‘ to monitor and not tolerate abuse of these spaces.’
‘Accessible parking is an essential lifeline for people with disabilities and it is totally unacceptable to park there.’
She explained that as and from March 1st, fixed charge for parking in a disabled parking bay without displaying a valid permit increased from €80 to €150. The €150 fee has to be paid within 28 days or it increase to €225 if paid within the next 28 days. A court summons will then be issued if the fee is not paid within 56 days from the offence.
‘Operation Enable is a multi agency initiative between An whose objective is to remind motorists to respect disabled parking bays and to discourage permit holders abuse the conditions attached to permits.’