Hospital car parking exemptions to be reviewed - McGimpsey

Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey has said he wants to increase the number of patients who are exempt from car parking fees at hospitals.

Speaking during an Assembly debate calling for free hospital car parking, the Minister said that commuters who used spaces rather than pay higher commercial rates, was a significant problem.

He said: “Charging is a means of discouraging inappropriate parking by commuters and protecting spaces for patients and hospital staff. The revenue is also a means of paying for the cost of running car parks.

“However, too many patients are still having difficulties in finding a parking space when they visit hospitals. This is unacceptable.

“I undertook a review of car parking provision at hospitals last year. My announcement in May made it clear that patients suffering from cancer, who require chemotherapy or radiotherapy and those receiving renal dialysis will not pay car parking fees. Similarly, the next of kin or partner of a critically ill patient will also receive free car parking.

“There will always be other situations in which people may have to visit hospital frequently or for lengthy periods and run up significant charges. That is why I will be asking Trusts to review those patients who are currently paying car parking fees. I fully expect that this will result in more patients, particularly those with chronic conditions, no longer having to pay.”

Outlining examples of commuters using car parking spaces in hospitals inappropriately, the Minister said: “At the Ulster Hospital problems during visiting times resulted in serious congestion which prevented emergency services getting to the A&E. People are parking at Daisy Hill hospital because there are very limited spaces at the railway station. Finally, security staff at Antrim Hospital came across a car which had been broken into. However, when they eventually traced the owner they discovered he had just come back from holiday and parked for free at the hospital rather than pay at the airport.

“It is important that the public act responsibly. By taking up limited car parking spaces in hospitals they are creating serious difficulties and anxieties for hospital staff, ill patients and their families.”

Notes to editors:

1. For media enquiries and for a copy of the Minister's speech contact the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0571 or mobile 07919 400248. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.