Call for improved parking facilities at St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny

Almost €1.5 million euro has been generated in income by the carpark at St Luke’s Hospital in Kilkenny over the past five years.

The figures were obtained by Deputy John McGuinness who asked the Minister for Health for the figures alongside the numbers of vehicles clamped during the same period.

According to the figures there were 74 vehicles clamped in 2023, 25 vehicles in 2022. four in 2021, 27 in 2020 and there were no figures available in relation to 2019.

Regarding income there was €360,467 income generated in 2023, €304,603 in income generated in 2022, €190,656 in 2021, €191,443 in 2020 and €450,247 in 2019.

“There is a substantial amount of money being generated by the car park at St Lukes Hospital and part of this funding should be used to reconfigure the parking spaces to allow for emergency short term parking, disability spaces near the entrance to the hospital and set down points.

“Staff parking also needs to be addressed. In view of the heavy use of the car park consideration should be given to having a car park attendant instead of the use of a private clamping service. People attending hospital are often stressed enough so as much as possible their needs should be facilitated,” said the Deputy.

General Manager at the hospital, Niamh Lacey said that there are currently plans in place to improve parking facilities. She also pointed out that are emergency drop-off points, 15 minutes of free parking and designated spaces for the elderly and disabled.