Limerick Mayor's car spotted in disabled parking space

The Mayor of Limerick, Kevin Sheehan, has apologised after his car was photographed at the headquarters of Limerick City & County Council parked in a disabled parking space.

Mayor Sheahan, who is not in receipt of a disabled parking card, apologised, but also told the Limerick Leader: "I do think it is a bit harsh that someone had nothing better to do than take a photograph of my car."

The car was seen by a female wheelchair user, who reported the offence.

The woman, who did not want to be identified, also contacted Limerick Anti-Austerity Alliance Councillor Cian Prendiville, and stated: "I recently visited county hall to pay monies to cash office.

"I am wheelchair-bound and was horrified to see the wheelchair parking bay occupied by a car.

"The car did not have any disability sticker and on making enquiries I learnt the car was belonging to the head of [Limerick] Council Mayor Sheahan."

"It's insulting and he is totally disrespecting the disabled people of Limerick. He should be made make a public apology."

Councillor Cian Prendiville described the mayor's response as "inadequate".

"It is totally unacceptable for the Mayor to be blocking up disabled parking spaces. If anyone else did it they would receive a parking fine, the same should apply for the Mayor," he added.

"It is disappointing that, rather than wholeheartedly apologise, the he has actually complained about the person who reported him. He should acknowledge that he is completely in the wrong, and the disabled person who spoke up and reported this is completely in the right - it is as simple as that."

"We need more people who speak up when they see injustices, and abuse of privilege," Cllr Prenderville added.