Cork University Hospital took in more than €2.3m in parking charges last year 

Cork University Hospital received an income of more than €2.3m through parking charges in 2024.

The HSE, in response to a parliamentary question by Sinn Féin Cork East TD Pat Buckley, said that the hospital accrued an income of €2,334,183 from parking charges last year.

This is subject to change, pending the publication of the HSE annual financial statements.

Mr Buckley said that these charges should be abolished, as they bring an “unnecessary financial burden” on those visiting loved ones or attending appointments.

Unnecessary financial burden

“The Government have still not capped or removed hospital car parking charges, despite promises to do so and despite being well aware of the financial implications of these parking costs for patients and their families, particularly for those with long-term and chronic illnesses that require frequent hospital attendance,” said Mr Buckley.

“These charges add an unnecessary financial burden during already stressful times.

“Healthcare is a fundamental right, and accessing it should never come with hidden costs.

“These parking charges also create a health inequality for rural patients, workers, and visitors to hospitals who have little to no access to reliable public transport services, so they are forced to use their car.

“Additionally, hospital workers, who dedicate their lives to saving others, should not have to pay to do their jobs working on the frontline in our hospitals.”

Mr Buckley said that while the HSE has raised concerns about unintended consequences of abolishing these charges, he believes this is not an excuse to continue delaying reducing and/or removing them.

“[I have] continuously called for the removal of hospital charges, [and I am] committed to finding a workable solution for abolishing parking charges,” he said.

“I urge the Government to act now and ensure hospital parking is free for all patients, visitors, and staff alike.”

Aware

A spokesperson for the HSE said that the income gained by CUH from car parking charges in 2024 is being reinvested into the management and upkeep of the car park, and that the hospital is “very aware” of the financial implications these costs have on patients and visitors.

“Hospitals introduced car parking charges in order to manage the demand for car parking at each hospital,” the HSE spokesperson said.

“The income generated from these car-parking fees covers the cost of providing these services, such as the initial capital cost of purchasing or renting parking areas, the cost of developing extra parking spaces, the need to provide and upgrade security systems, provide staffing, and general maintenance of these car parks.

“Hospitals currently charging car parking fees are very aware of the financial implications of these parking costs for patients and their families,” they added.

“Consequently, some hospitals have introduced a maximum daily fixed parking charge and reduced rates and/or introduced concessions for patients with long-term and chronic illnesses, inclusive of their families and visitors.”