Changes to disabled parking scheme announced
Transport Minister Leo Varadkar has announced changes to the Disabled Parking Permit Scheme.
The Minister said it is the first time the scheme has been overhauled in 12 years.
The changes aim to reduce the fraudulent use of permits, give new powers to local authorities and make sure more specific disabled parking bays are available.
Key changes include:
- Changing the medical eligibility criteria for the Disabled Person's Parking permit;
- New measures to reduce the fraudulent use of permits;
- An increase in the size of some types of parking bays;
- The introduction of new types of disabled parking bays;
- Giving powers to local authorities to introduce time restricted parking spaces;
- New set-down and pick-up only disabled spaces.
"I want to thank all of those who have contributed to this major overhaul of a scheme that was no longer fit for purpose," Minister Varadkar said.
"The recommendations of all those who contributed to the review have helped to form this new law. I look forward to the new scheme making a real difference to parking for people with disabilities in towns and cities throughout Ireland".
The changes come into effect in June.
