Warning for Limerick motorists as technology replaces old windscreen penalty fines

GARDAI continue to combat illegal parking in Limerick stressed the head of the divisional Roads Policing Unit.

The decision to end the practice of placing Fixed Charge Penalty Notices on the windscreens of offending vehicles raised eyebrows in some quarters.

However, Inspector Padraigh Sutton told members of the Travel & Transportation Strategic Policy Committee the perception (that gardai are doing nothing) stems from the removal of on-the-spot tickets.

He said enforcement is still ongoing and that gardaí now use mobility devices to issue fines, which are then sent to drivers by post rather than being placed on vehicles.

At the same meeting Inspector Sutton also addressed questions as to how gardai enforce the rules around pedestrian spaces.

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He again acknowledged the public perception that gardaí are inactive, but stressed that enforcement is happening behind the scenes - particularly around major events such as concerts, festivals or sporting fixtures.

Separately, Insp Sutton told committee members that the costs associated with parking and potential fines in Limerick city are becoming a part of the “experience” for visitors.

Highlighting the quirky phenomenon, he said some motorists are now factoring in the cost of a fine in their ‘budget’ when visiting the city.

Insp Sutton, who is also responsible for the policing of major events in Limerick, delivered his insight in response to questions from Cllr Elisa O’Donovan.

The Social Democrats councillor sought to clarify who members of the public should contact if they notice cars parked on pedestrianised streets such as Bedford Row or Cruises Street.

Cllr O’Donovan told the meeting that she “was not aware that it was illegal.”

Insp Sutton confirmed that parking in a pedestrianised area is an offence and carries a fixed fine of €80.

Limerick City and County Council also employs a number of traffic wardens who enforce parking regulations across the city and county. They also have the power to issue fines.