The HSE is insisting it's not looking to "penalise" anyone by introducing paid parking at Merlin Park.
Rather, it told a Health Forum West meeting this week, it's actually trying to do the exact opposite.
Management argued it's a busy site that's only going to get busier - referencing the new outpatients building as well as the ongoing construction of a major surgical hub.
And parking charges in certain areas, they said, will help secure space for the public attending appointments.
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Councillor Shane Forde says he accepts all hospitals have paid parking - but there's more the HSE could do.
