COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, June 13, 2011

MOTION NO. 6

MOTION: Councillor B. Bonner

That the Manager would produce a report on the efforts made by the council to address the problem of dangerous and illegal parking outside and near schools at school opening and closing times and would address the following issues.

a. The extent to which the council tries to ensure that there is a safe pedestrian route for children to walk to school.

b. Risk to pedestrians especially children caused by dangerous parking.

c. Annoyance caused to residents whose driveways etc are routinely blocked by school related parking.

d. The extent to which a concerted effort is made to enforce the law with regard to dangerous or illegal parking at schools. 

REPORT:

Pedestrian safety

The Council provides a network of School Wardens and signalised crossings throughout the County to assist thousands of children walking to school. Where problems are reported, they are investigated and appropriate measures recommended subject to funding.  Parents and school Boards of Management have an important role to play by deciding on the safe route to school, accompanying their children and explaining the dangers before allowing them to walk alone.  The Road Safety Authority (RSA) as does the Council's Road Safety Officer also provides guidance in this regard.  

Where deemed necessary "School Keep Clear" markings are provided in the vicinity of school entrances, these prohibit vehicles from stopping or parking.  In addition other parking restrictions such as yellow lines are provided.  However, where schools are located in residential areas such restrictions have to be balanced with the requirements of local residents. Pedestrian barriers and advance warning signing are provided adjacent to many schools to further enhance safety.

In the vicinity of schools unfortunately some motorists park in an unsafe manner which can compromise safety.  It should be noted that blocking a vehicle entrance is illegal and offenders should be reported to the Gardai.  While the enforcement of parking regulations is the responsibility of the Gardai it is only through the combined efforts of the Council, School Management, Teachers, Parent Associations and Community Groups that the problem can  be solved. The Council will continue to give assistance to schools that are proactive in solving the problems in their school area e.g. opening additional pedestrian entrances, encouraging walk to school programmes.

A Road Safety Authority resource pack entitled “Be Safe” is now included in the primary school curriculum. 

As stated enforcement of the traffic laws is a matter for the Gardai and areas of concern are brought to the attention of the Gardai in writing and during regular meetings.