Dublin keeps clamping as APCOA takes over enforcement

Dublin City Council has confirmed that clamping will remain a central part of its parking enforcement system, moving to clarify confusion caused by earlier reports that the practice would be largely replaced by towing and fines under a new contract. Brendan O'Brien, the council's executive manager for traffic, apologised for the misunderstanding and said the council plans to continue clamping for the foreseeable future. He stressed that clamping is very much part of the new contract and that the council is not saying goodbye to the practice. The clarification came as the council prepares to hand over parking enforcement to APCOA Parking, which has been officially appointed as the new contractor and is due to take up the role from November 1. The outgoing operator, Dublin Street Parking Services, which is owned by Q-Park and has overseen enforcement since 2004, saw its contract, originally due to expire in July, extended until October pending the transition. Dublin City Council remains the only local authority in the country that still employs clamping.