Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Section 14 provides the National Transport Authority with power to set maximum charges which may be imposed for the release of a clamp or in respect of vehicle relocation in non-statutory clamping places. This proposed amendment seeks to incentivise early payment of such charges, but it is not appropriate in these circumstances and I will therefore not be accepting this amendment.

In the first instance, I wish to remind Deputies that the Bill aims to give transparent safeguards to motorists when it comes to clamping, particularly in respect of charges, signage, complaints and appeals. Under section 14, the NTA will set the maximum clamp release and vehicle relocation charges that may be levied in non-statutory clamping places such as private car parks and car parks associated with shopping centres, retail parks, sports stadia and so forth. It will do this following consideration of any representations received from interested third parties and it may also set different maximum charges for different areas and different times of the day.

Payment of a clamp-release charge is tied in with the release of the vehicle itself. Discounts for early payment are not appropriate. People generally want the clamp released as quickly as possible and will pay the release charge quickly to secure its release. The early release of the clamp and therefore release of the vehicle is the incentive for early payment of the clamp release charge. The period following payment of the charge within which the clamp must be removed will also be specified in regulations by the NTA. The concept of an incentivised early payment is captured in section 30 Bill when it comes to certain offences. Section 30 allows the NTA to operate a fixed payment notice system as an alternative to bringing payments to the courts. The specified fixed charge is €250, but if this is not paid within 28 days it rises by 50% during the subsequent 28 day period.