Clare councillors are calling for alternative solutions to combat illegal parking rather than “draconian” clamping.
It follows a vote by the Castlebar Municipal District in Mayo to outlaw clamping in their town.
Taylor from Kilkee is calling for enhanced enforcement to combat illegal parking.
She says the situation is incredibly dangerous for vulnerable pedestrians, like her grandmother, who have to constantly navigate past delivery trucks parked on footpaths.
The issue, which is now dominating discussions in Mayo following complaints that drivers had their vehicles unfairly impeded near hospitals and pharmacies, has shone the spotlight on similar stories in Clare.
Athough while the idea may seem to be gaining momentum, local authorities don’t actually have the power to restrict clamping in private car parks.
Ennis Fianna Fáil Councillor Antoinette Baker Bashua claims constituents have been regularly penalised by clamping companies after rushing to get the last train or bus at the town’s station.
She believes clamping is far too restrictive and that penalty points for repeat offenders would be a better solution.
Last year , 2605 parking fines were issued in Clare, with over 10% of these overturned on appeal.
Lisdoonvarna Fine Gael Councillor Joe Garrihy believes improved mobility plans, such as bus connects and more parking would tackle the problem.
You can listen to the full interview here:
