Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 6 September 2019
1307. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Health when his Department and the HSE will have an implementation plan complete to accompany the review report by the HSE of hospital car parking charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36572/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraHospitals 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. In March 2018, 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.
