463 fines were issued to motorists in Westmeath for illegally parking on footpaths in 2023, according to data provided to Vision Ireland by Westmeath County Council.
Westmeath ranked 11th highest in Ireland for the most fines issued for illegal parking on footpaths. It was the highest-ranked midlands county ahead of Meath (423), Offaly (65) and Longford (38). A survey conducted by Vision Ireland with visually impaired people found that 70% feel cars parked on footpaths are a difficulty when they are navigating urban spaces.
Nationally, 22,000 fines were issued to motorists illegally parking on footpaths last year. Dublin City handed out the most fines with 4,039 and also clamped 2,079 cars for parking on footpaths. Roscommon was bottom of the list with zero fines issued.
The data collected from Vision Ireland found that only 46 fines were issued for dog fouling nationwide in 2023. This fell from 82 in 220, a 44% decrease. Westmeath was one of 18 counties who issued zero dog fouling fines in 2023. Kerry handed out the most fines with 13. Approximately one third of respondents to Vision Ireland’s survey said dog fouling was a difficulty when navigating urban spaces.
Kevin Kelly, head of policy, partnerships and external affairs at Vision Ireland said: “Parked cars and dog waste are two of the biggest hazards people who are blind and vision impaired face on our footpaths.
“The number of parking fines issued alone is astounding and gives an idea of the many thousands of obstacles people who are blind and vision impaired face when they’re out and about. Fines alone will not solve these problems.
“We must all work together and do our part to clear our paths. If everyone takes more responsibility for their actions, we can work towards making our paths safer for all.”
