Cork Gardai Intensify Efforts to Enforce Patrick’s Street Car Ban
Cork’s Gardaí are actively enforcing the car ban on Patrick’s Street to ensure compliance and improve traffic flow
Cork, Ireland, Pana Car Ban, Traffic Enforcement, Gardaí
Cork: Gardaí are really stepping up their game when it comes to the car ban on Patrick’s Street. They’re out there stopping cars during the ‘Pana ban’ hours, which run from 3 PM to 6:30 PM.
This afternoon, officers were busy chatting with drivers who dared to drive through the area. It was quite the scene with a line of cars pulled over around 4:30 PM. They were checking in with nearly everyone who thought they could sneak through.
Motorists are supposed to take a detour along the quays instead of driving on Patrick’s Street during those hours. It’s all about keeping the street clear for buses and taxis, which is why the ban was put in place back in 2018.
There’s been a lot of chatter from local businesses, taxi drivers, and even city councillors about how the rules haven’t been enforced enough. Many private cars have been spotted parking in bus lanes and taxi ranks, which is a big no-no.
In fact, just this year, traffic wardens handed out over 3,000 fines for various parking violations on St. Patrick’s Street. Almost 600 of those were for the wrong vehicle class. It’s no wonder people call it the biggest trap for illegal parking in Ireland!
If you get caught driving in a bus lane, it’ll cost you €60 if you pay within 28 days. After that, it jumps to €90. So, it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on those signs!