Debate contribution: Hospital Parking Charges Bill: Final Stage

Debate contribution by Mr Alan Chambers on 20 April 2026.

MLA: Mr Alan Chambers
Party at the time: Ulster Unionist Party
Date: 20 April 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Executive Committee Business
Heading: Hospital Parking Charges Bill: Final Stage
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5494039

Text

I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the debate on Final Stage of the Hospital Parking Charges Bill. Like other Members, I recognise that this has been a constructive and, at times, challenging legislative process. It has highlighted just how deeply the issue resonates with not only our constituents but the staff and patients who rely on our health service every day. I acknowledge the original intent behind the Hospital Parking Charges Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, which was to ease the burden on those who already face significant pressures. That principle remains sound, and it is important that we do not lose sight of it. We must deal with the reality that is in front of us, however, not the circumstances of three years ago. The financial position facing our health and social care system is stark. Members will all be well aware that the scale of the deficit and the pressure on front-line services are unlike anything that we have seen in recent years. Against that backdrop, the question before us is not whether abolishing parking charges is desirable — it clearly is — but whether that can be delivered without causing greater harm elsewhere in the system. The loss from trust budgets of approximately £7 million a year could not simply be absorbed; it would have consequences, and those consequences would be felt directly in patient care, with reduced services, longer waiting times or further strain on an already overstretched workforce. That is not a trade-off that the Assembly should make lightly. The Bill represents a pragmatic and responsible step. It does not abandon the objective of abolishing charges. Rather, it recognises that timing matters. By deferring implementation, we create the space needed to stabilise finances and protect essential services. I also welcome the flexibility built into the legislation. The use of regulations, subject to affirmative resolution, ensures that the Assembly retains control over when the Act is commenced. Equally, the provision for earlier implementation, should the financial position improve, is sensible. Importantly, protections remain in place. Free parking for staff will continue, and a needs-based approach will ensure that those who depend most on access to hospital parking are not disadvantaged. I am confident that the Minister will bear that in mind. In conclusion, this is not an easy decision, but it is the right one in the current circumstances, reflecting the need for responsible governance that is grounded in financial reality. My party and I support the Bill.

412 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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