The Western Trust started installing Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras at the South West Acute Hospital car park in Fermanagh on May 11. The cameras aim to monitor parking usage and gather data for future planning.

Councillor Debbie Coyle, a staff member at the Western Trust, raised issues about the system's impact on hospital workers and emergency patients. She noted that staff already register vehicle details and questioned enforcement of a three-hour parking limit for those on extended shifts.

Coyle pointed out difficulties with the existing payment setup at some hospital car parks. She said these locations do not accept card payments or euros, unlike other sites in Enniskillen, which affects late-night visitors and those crossing from the border.

She highlighted ongoing parking shortages around the hospital, with vehicles often parked on adjacent roads. Coyle called for no charges near the A&E department.

The Department of Health has kept hospital parking fees in Northern Ireland active. New legislation delays their removal until at least May 2029, or earlier if funds allow.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt stated that ending charges now would cost the health service £7 million each year amid tight finances.