Sir,
The plans by Pembrokeshire County Council to impose parking charges on holders of disabled Blue Badges is causing great concern and should be condemned by all fair thinking members of the community. Clubs and organisations for the elderly should join me in signing a petition against these plans.
Let the council members come forward and publish valid reasons for such a decision. If someone illegally parks in a disabled parking area, it is the duty of the authorities to act against the culprit. Why do we have traffic wardens and the police? If the existing system is being abused, how do the planners know that their alternative plans will not be equally abused.
There cannot be that many illegal Blue Badge holders that a co-ordinated effort between the issuing office and the police could not solve. If such a relatively minor issue cannot be solved without causing so much discomfort and suffering to the sick and infirm, one is bound to question the ability of our elected leaders to deal with more important problems.
How long will it be before they abolish the Blue Badge altogether? I suppose the problem will be easily solved by having contractors clamping the disabled person's car.
I shall motor all over the county while I am able to park, before this heartless and totally needless plan is put into effect by an insensitive group of elected representatives who naturally enjoy free parking near their ivory towers. Maybe they can claim their parking fees as part of their generous expenses for acting in the interests of the young, the old and infirm in the county.
A final word to our friendly councillors. If you are aware that one day you too might find yourselves in our circumstances and, at the same time, implement this plan regardless, then you are to be admired for your selfless dedication to your civic responsibilities.
Robert F. Delpech,
Cosheston.