Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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95. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will ensure that street parking will be free for healthcare workers for the duration of the Covid-19 crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1983/21]

Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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98. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will request local authorities to reintroduce free parking for healthcare workers during the current level 5 restrictions as was seen by Dublin City Council during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1982/21]

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 95 and 98 together.

I wish in the first instance to acknowledge the great work of our healthcare workers. The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded all of us of the vital role they play in our health service. In addition, I wish to acknowledge the important role the local government sector has played throughout the duration of Covid-19.

Notwithstanding that, I have no function in the matter raised. The elected members of local authorities have direct responsibility in law for all reserved functions of the authority, including the setting of local charges. It would not be appropriate for me, therefore, to be prescriptive in respect of the steps local authorities may take to address issues that are presented to them by Covid-19.