We live in fear of those dreaded clampers, and many of us have had to fork out a hefty fee for being clamped.
Currently, the standard fee for a clamp release is €80 but is higher in some places. However, now new clamping regulations are being introduced and, as part of these, a maximum clamping fee will be set.
The long-overdue act will also see an appeals process set up for drivers who believe their cars have been unfairly clamped or towed away.
It will also require appropriate signage in places where clamping is operated, as well as the establishment of a code of practice.
Clampers who abuse the new regulations will now be subject to investigation and prosecution, according to Newstalk.
A period of consultation will now take place before the National Transport Authority(NTA) will consider submissions on the legislation.
Regulation on clamping has been a contentious issue for several years, with Fine Gael first proposing to regulate the industry in 2010.
Simon Coveney who was then the party’s spokesperson on transport, launched the Vehicle Immobilisation Regulation Bill to crack down on clampers.
Legislation for The Vehicle Clamping Act 2015 was passed 17 months ago but was delayed because the NTA required additional resources to deal with it, according to The Department of Transport.
Minister for Transport Shane Ross said: "I am delighted to be able to commence the Vehicle Clamping Act 2015.
"The Act will benefit people through providing a robust regulatory framework for vehicle clamping and, importantly, will also allow for the establishment of statutory complaints and appeals procedures.”
He acknowledged the fact that regulating clamping has been a concern for Irish drivers for many years.
“I know that people have called for a statutory regulatory framework in relation to vehicle clamping for many years.
“The Act designates the NTA as the statutory regulator for clamping, and my commencement of the Act will now allow the NTA publish draft regulations relating to clamping, signage and clamp release charges; and invite submissions from members of the public on those draft regulations.”
It will no doubt be welcome news to those who have ended up with extortionate clamping fees or feel they were unfairly clamped.
What do you think of the new regulations, mums? We would love to hear your thoughts.
