Threat of clamping could finally solve problem of widespread illegal parking

SIR,

I gave out a bit lately about speeding and illegal parking fines. With speeding it seems there is little than can be done to deter the speedsters other than increasing the amount of the fine as a deterrent.

However, the problem of illegal parking is a different matter entirely. Lately I have noticed that in quite a number of small private car parks where rapid turnover of customers is important, the usual notice of ‘ Short term parking only, limit 20 minutes’ has had an additional sign stating: ‘Car clamping now in order here. Cars parked over the specified time will be clamped and will be released only on payment of... Please contact the following number...’

This would, it seems to me, provide a solution for the illegal parking in our cities and towns. Instead of having the courts clogged up with parking fines, those who park when and where they feel like could quickly learn their lesson. I would even allow the first two clampings off and just place a notice on the windscreens, then clamp away if they choose to ignore them.

Should the fine not be paid the vehicle would be towed away and an additional amount be required for its release.

This could also lead to quite a number of new jobs throughout the country.

Yours, Michael O’Meara, Faha, Killarney.