By Robbie Byrne
Three motorists have been issued Fixed Charged Penalty Notices for parking in 'popular' wheelchair-access bays in Tramore, Co. Waterford.
The vehicles, an Audi Q7, Ford Focus saloon, and Nissan Qashqai were all occupied at the time.
None of the motorists in question were able to provide valid disabled driver identification and were subsequently fined.
The penalty for parking in a wheelchair-access parking bay is €150.
This particular parking bay has become something of a blackspot in recent months, with a number of fines handed down to motorists from gardaí.
Waterford RPU observed these three cars parked in disabled driver bays earlier. All cars occupied and no disabled drivers identification in their possession. These spaces are invaluable to those who need them. Fixed Charge Penalty Notices issued to all drivers. #operationenable pic.twitter.com/wy0Hot85ru
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) May 8, 2021
On April 25th last, Waterford's Road Policing Unit fined this driver who was of the understanding that it was acceptable to park in a wheelchair-access parking bay while eating chips!
Waterford Gardaí observed this car parked in a disabled bay. The driver thought it was ok to park there while eating their chips as other empty disabled bays were nearby. A Fixed Charge Notice was issued.
If you are travelling to any local amenities today please park legally. pic.twitter.com/0TWygejXVK
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) April 25, 2021
Earlier in April, the driver of this Peugeot was fined for parking at the same spot while enjoying a take out (yes, again!).
Waterford RPU found this vehicle parked in a disabled parking space in Tramore.
The occupants had stopped to eat food from a local takeaway. When asked, the driver said they didn't know it was a disabled bay.
A fine of €150 was issued. pic.twitter.com/DRymzBFFTt
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) April 16, 2021
Commenting on this incident, one Twitter user commented on how frequently the bay is used illegally, writing: “Has to be the most profitable parking spot in Ireland, we holiday in apt right opposite this spot and we actually play a game with family to see who gets fined.”
