Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

348. To ask the Minister for Health the HSE's policy in relation to the operation of car parks within hospital grounds; the amount of revenue collected by hospital in respect of those car parks nationally; his views on the charges persons have to pay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53773/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The efficient management of parking spaces and traffic flow on hospital campuses is of crucial importance. This is to ensure on-going availability of parking spaces; free flow of traffic on campus; unobstructed access for emergency vehicles at all times; proper use of spaces designated for drivers with disabled permits; and proper use of spaces designated as drop off points near the hospital entrance.

I am advised that some hospitals have introduced a maximum daily fixed parking charge while others provide reduced parking rates for long-term patients and visitors for whom the payment of the full rate would cause hardship. The HSE has advised me that it keeps hospital parking charges under review.

As the issue of car parking is an operational matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly regarding the particular queries raised.