John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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1328. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if there is legislation governing private operators clamping vehicles in private car parks at commercial or private residential premises areas; if so, if there is a limit to the amount that can be charged for the removal of the clamp; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34983/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​As the Deputy may be aware the initial commencement of the Vehicle Clamping Act 2015 was effective from 1 June 2017.

The Act designates the National Transport Authority (NTA) as the statutory regulator for clamping and the NTA has now published draft Regulations and invited submissions from members of the public with a closing date of today.

  The Act will benefit people through providing a robust regulatory framework for vehicle clamping and importantly will also allow for the establishment of statutory complaints and appeals procedures. The Act will I believe address issues such as those referred to in the Deputy's question.

Specifically, the Act will provide for: regulation of clamping and related activities; establishment of a two-tier appeals process to hear appeals against clamping or relocation; provision of appropriate signage in places where clamping is operated; setting of maximum clamp release and vehicle relocation charges; establishment of a code of practice; and provision of necessary enforcement and investigate powers to investigate and prosecute any alleged breaches of regulations made.

Following the completion of the consultation period, the NTA will now consider submissions received before finalising the Regulations to allow it to assume all its new responsibilities effective from 1 October, 2017.