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01st Feb 2022

New increased fines for Irish road users come into effect from today

Hugh Carr

increased fines irish road users

The cost of the fine has doubled.

Be careful where you park, or you might face an increased fine on the road.

New Government regulations have doubled the fixed charge penalty for motorists caught parking on footpaths, cycle tracks, and bus lanes.

Fines for these offences have increased from €40 to €80.

The aim of the increase, according to Dublin City Council, is to “encourage more considerate behaviour by motorists and safeguard space for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.”

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Alison Gilliland welcomed the news of the increase.

“Parking on the footpath disproportionately affects people with mobility issues, such as wheelchair users or those who are visually challenged as well as people with buggies,” Gilliland said.

“For them it is not easy to step on to the road to get past a car blocking their way.

It’s hugely important for us to keep our footpaths clear so that everyone can access the city freely,” she concluded.

Brendan O’Brien, Director of Traffic, Dublin City Council said: “Increasing the number of people choosing sustainable transport modes is a priority for Dublin City Council – in terms of our Climate Action commitments and in increasing the health and wellbeing of people living in, working in and visiting our city.

“More people walking and cycling and using public transport is good for everybody.

“We need to do everything we can to enable and support people to choose these modes – this means making the space safe and accessible.”

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan announced the increase in fines earlier in January.

“I am very pleased to announce these increased penalties which will both promote active travel and encourage a more considerate use of road space.

“Parking on footpaths puts vulnerable pedestrians, such as wheelchair users and those pushing buggies, at significant risk by forcing them off the footpath and into traffic.

“Parking in bus and cycle lanes endangers cyclists and undermines State investment in sustainable public transport infrastructure.

“These increases should help improve the safety of all vulnerable road and footpath users, by creating a more effective deterrent to these specific forms of illegal parking.”

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