Nov 07 - ERG Says It Is Time For “Zero Tolerance” On Disability Parking Obstruction
An Equality Rights Group spokesman has said that the group is “shocked to hear more and more constant worries over designated parking spaces properly reserved for exclusive use by disabled citizens being all too frequently blocked or taken by able-bodied users.”
The group says that complaints and reports have been increasing exponentially over time, and they remain highly concerned about the impact this is having on the disabled and - very importantly and crucially - on their carers in our community. It is, said a spokesperson, “frankly, totally unacceptable that this creeping problem should be there at all – and even less so that it should be increasing without apparent solution.”
The statement continues: “Well-marked and designated parking spaces reserved with their due markings and signage are precisely that – they are not for temporary parking for anyone else’s use. Furthermore, those who park next to such spaces should not unthinkingly block access or use to those spaces by careless parking of motorbikes or cycles. A little more thought on users’ part will spare a person being unable to get into their vehicle due to someone else parking so tightly next to the space as to make a disabled person unable to access their car.
“ERG calls on the relevant Ministries and Royal Gibraltar Police to redouble their efforts and, in particular, to ensure Officers strictly ensure the strictest policing of any infringements. Individuals who pay no heed to respecting the right of the disabled in our community should be dealt with within a zero tolerance policy.
“It is time to put the message out loud and clear to our community: it is shameful that this kind of behaviour is going on at all. If you can’t find a parking space, it is just downright wrong to steal one for however long from a reserved disabled parking user. It is time for the whole community and the authorities to act with greater determination.”
