Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

One glove does not fit all hands. Amendment No. 8 introduces a framework which, as the Minister, Deputy Cullen, indicated on Second Stage, will allow local authorities to take the necessary actions. Subsidiarity should be considered in this context and I do not believe any Member would wish to introduce legislation in micro-form. Local councillors should be able to introduce bye-laws to address issues of parking congestion on public roads or the environs of sports stadia. The amendment gives local authorities the power to introduce bye-laws regarding parking at entertainment events and sports fixtures. I acknowledge Senator Paddy Burke's contribution on this issue.

It is not a question of forgetting to address the problem. The imposition of restrictions of prohibitions and restrictions on parking on public roads is a complex matter and advice had to be obtained from the Office of the Attorney General. The new section provides for a prohibition on parking around specified venues or events, the issuance of permits to residents, regulatory traffic signs, consultation with the Garda and general public, publication of notices and various ancillary matters. It will also make three minor amendments to the Road Traffic Acts, two of which are typographical while the third is technical in nature. Amendment No. 18 is consequential to amendment No. 8.

While I do not accept Senator Paddy Burke's amendment, amendments Nos. 8 and 18 fully reflect his intentions. I hope, therefore, that the amendments receive cross-party support. They introduce a framework, after which it will be a matter for local authorities to act on a case-by-case basis.