'Park properly to avoid penalties'

Mr Kennedy said parking enforcement is vital to managing traffic in city centres as it reduces congestion, improves accessibility and increases road safety.

"It also improves availability of short-term parking spaces for shoppers and visitors and it helps to keep bus lanes, cycle lanes and urban clearways free for those who are entitled to use them. Our aim is to reduce the number of illegally parked vehicles, not to issue tickets," he said.

"As our streets get busier it is imperative that motorists endeavour to park their vehicles properly."

No one likes to get a parking ticket and our campaign will advise motorists on steps they can take to avoid them

Danny Kennedy

Information leaflets are to be distributed to drivers to explain the role of parking enforcement and also inform them of how they can challenge a ticket if they feel it has been unfairly issued. The leaflet will also give some key tips on how to park properly and avoid getting a ticket.

The Minister said that any drivers looking for help or advice in relation to parking can also approach a traffic attendant for assistance.

Mr Kennedy said NSL Ltd, who won the parking enforcement contract, does not have ticket targets.

"There is no incentive for NSL, or for traffic attendants, to issue more tickets. However, where vehicles are found to be parked in contravention, traffic attendants will take appropriate action," he said.

"My Department has also published a Parking Enforcement Protocol. This details the procedures in place to deal with enforcement, including the process for issuing parking tickets.

"The vast majority of road users are familiar with and comply with parking restrictions. I ask all drivers to park legally, to be considerate to others and to observe parking restrictions."