An Garda Síochána backs ‘Make Way Day 20’

An Garda Síochána is supporting the Disability Federation of Ireland in its ‘Make Way Day 20’ initiative, which takes place across Ireland today, September 25.

This campaign aims to raise awareness about the challenges persons with disabilities face from obstacles left on the footpath and poor driver behaviour.

Speaking this morning at Garda Headquarters, Chief Superintendent Raymond McMahon, Garda National Roads Policing Bureau, said: “We are urging drivers to be conscious of other road users, particularly those with impaired mobility and disability by asking them not to park on footpaths or use designated disabled parking bays without a proper permit.

“As part of ‘Operation Enable’, An Garda Síochána haa targeted offences relating to the improper use of disabled parking bays. Since 2017 we have issued over 18,000 fines, even in this year with coronavirus we have issued over 1,800 fines.

“Please be conscious of the needs of others and remember that using hazard lights does not entitle you to park where you wish.”

Over the past number of years, An Garda Síochána has developed close working relationships with the various associations representing persons with disabilities.