TD calls for one-hour free parking pass for elderly drivers

Fianna Fáil TD Shay Brennan has called for the introduction of a one-hour free car parking pass for elderly drivers in both public and private car parks.

He says the proposal is intended to prevent social isolation and improve mobility for older people who rely on parking close to shops and services.

The Dublin Rathdown TD’s call follows reports that new parking fees have been introduced at Stillorgan Village Shopping Centre, which has seen a significant drop in footfall since the introduction of these charges.

He said these fees have a disproportionate impact on elderly shoppers who depend on being able to park nearby and who may not be as physically able as younger people to walk longer distances or carry shopping.

He also said the parking charges are creating a social barrier for elderly people, discouraging them from travelling at a time when many already feel socially isolated.

The Deputy explained the scheme would operate on an age qualifying basis, similar to existing supports such as the free travel pass and the medical card, where eligibility begins once a person reaches a certain age.

Speaking on the issue, Deputy Brennan said:

“The recent introduction of parking fees in local car parks is having a disproportionate impact on elderly people who are dependent on being able to park close to shops so that they can easily carry their shopping to their car.

“Parking fees discourage elderly people from going to the shops as they fear they cannot get parking close enough, creating dependency on others to drop them off at the shops or do the shopping for them. This reinforces the social isolation so many already feel.

“Parking charges are hitting vulnerable groups hardest, keeping older people at home when they need to visit shops, GPs or friends.

“This scheme will also yield benefits for local business as it is older people who most strongly support local high street businesses, yet this cohort is now struggling to access parking.”

The Deputy said the proposal would be a modest and targeted concession, limited strictly to one hour for short trips. He said it would remove a key barrier for vulnerable people and allow for greater mobility and social interaction.

“We should be supporting elderly people to have greater social interaction. Many already feel isolated. We should be cutting barriers to that rather than putting them up,” Deputy Brennan said.

He added that the scheme should be piloted by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. An off-peak pilot in selected car parks across Dublin Rathdown would test uptake, cost and impact, with evaluation guiding any wider rollout.