Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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301. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to address the matter of hospital parking charges; the status of the implementation plan; the next steps that will be taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46020/19]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Hospitals which charge parking fees are cognisant of the financial implications parking costs can have on patients and their families, particularly those with long-term illnesses. Some hospitals have introduced a maximum daily fixed parking charge, thus capping this expense. I understand that some hospitals also provide reduced rate parking for long-term patients and visitors for whom the payment of the full rate would cause hardship.

I have made it clear I want to see progress made in this area and I am working with my Department and the HSE in this regard. As such, I requested the HSE to conduct a review of hospital car parking charges with a view to establishing clear national guidelines in the area. My Department and the HSE are currently engaging on a draft implementation plan to accompany the review report.