No free parking for Christmas shoppers in county town

There will be no free parking for Christmas shoppers in Castlebar this year.

A proposal by Councillor Ger Deere to have some free parking in council car parks was rejected at a municipal district meeting today (Wednesday).

He was told there was no provision for the move in the budget this year. Also, under the bye-laws, free parking could not be introduced as it was out of time.

Councillor Deere requested a few hours free parking to give something back to shoppers and businesses.

However, the cathaoirleach, Councillor Michael Kilcoyne, said the Chamber of Commerce did not seek free parking as it was of no benefit. Instead, money was invested in an event for the town which was of more benefit to businesses.

A review found free parking made no difference to people coming to town.

Councillor Martin McLoughlin said previously, with half day parking, people found it confusing.

Put to a vote, Councillor Deere's motion was defeated by four votes to three, the votes 'for' coming from himself, Councillor Donna Sheridan and Councillor Cyril Burke.