Martin Meagher is an engineering master’s student studying at UCD. Moving into the Belgrove accommodation in UCD this September, Meagher was unaware of a policy change that was implemented in 2016 by the college.

This policy change means Meagher is no longer eligible to apply for a parking permit because he lives on the UCD campus grounds.

“In week two I was going to bring the car up, but I realised I couldn’t because once you check into campus, you are not eligible to apply for a parking permit in UCD,” Meagher said.

“My friend is in the same situation and she was told by UCD that she could park on campus, but would have to pay €3 per day. Which is ridiculously expensive.”

UCD implemented the parking permit policy to combat people availing of the free parking on the college grounds. The parking permit costs €25 each semester.

“We are paying €6,600 for nine months and there are others who are paying even more. It is disappointing given how much we are paying that we are not allowed to apply for a parking permit and have extra cost just to park here.

“I don’t mind paying for the parking permit, but we are not even considered for it after all the money we have paid for accommodation and fees. That is the issue. It makes no sense.”