WATCH: Limerick motorists urged to Think Before You Park
LIMERICK motorists are being urged to Think Before You Park as part of a new campaign.
Limerick City and County Council and An Garda Siochana, jointly present Think Before You Park, a campaign to raise awareness among motorists about the far-reaching consequences of their parking choices, addressing obstructions and hazards in Limerick city and county.
In 2023, Limerick gardaí and Limerick City and County Council issued in excess of 18,000 fixed charge penalty notices for parking offences across the city the county.
Contrary to public perception, gardaí issue fines without placing physical tickets on vehicles. This can lead the public to mistakenly believe that no action is being taken against offending vehicles.
As part of the Think Before You Park campaign, for a limited period, members of the Limerick Garda Roads Policing Unit will place information stickers on vehicles that have been issued with fixed charge notices.
The stickers direct motorists to the campaign webpage on Limerick.ie, providing insights into the impact of improper parking.
Vulnerable road and footpath users share their experiences and the challenges they face on a daily basis in a new video produced for the campaign.
Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell explains: "The 'Think Before You Park campaign is a collective call to mindfulness on our roads.
"Parking choices impact us all, from the convenience of daily commuters to the daily struggles of vulnerable community members.
"Let's work towards a Limerick where every parking decision is a thoughtful step towards safer, more accessible roads and footpaths for everyone."
John Gannon, senior engineer, roads operations, Limerick City and County Council said: "At Limerick City and County Council, we're working closely with An Garda Siochana to inspire motorists to reflect on the repercussions of obstructive parking.
"This behaviour poses challenges for various road users, affecting people with disabilities, cyclists, parents with buggies, and pedestrians.
"Let's collectively address this concern, whether near schools, in housing estates, or anywhere in the city or county. Always remember to Think Before You Park."
Superintendent Andrew Lacey of Henry Street garda station said: "The Think Before You Park campaign will increase awareness around the harm and consequences of inconsiderate and illegal parking in our city and county.
"In many cases, the vehicle moves on within a few minutes, but this short period of time can have a significant impact on residents, businesses, vulnerable persons or persons with a disability.
"We’re calling for motorists to be more considerate when parking their vehicles but also make drivers aware that Limerick City and County Council and An Garda Siochana both have clear statutory powers of enforcement. So always remember to Think Before You Park."