A hapless driver drove through a barrier at the Q-Park Car Park on Church Street in Portlaoise on Friday last.
It is presumed the driver didn’t wish to pay the fee for parking, and took matters into their own hands, smashing through the barrier instead.
A garda spokesperson told LaoisToday.ie that some barriers will automatically tip up if a vehicle drives against them, but this is not the case with the ones in operation at the car park in Portlaoise.
Instead the driver caused damage to the barrier at the car park, close to the Heritage Hotel. The driver then made off on Jessop Street. It is believed considerable damage would also have been caused to the car, following the incident.
There are CCTV cameras in the area and gardai are examining footage from these as part of their investigation. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Portlaoise Garda Station at (057) 8674100.
There is a charge of €1.50 per hour at the car park, with a maximum charge of €13 per 24 hours. An evening/overnight rate from 5pm to 10 am costs just €5.00.
