The parking charges situation in Trim

Dear sir - I was highly entertained by Cllr O'Brien's apologia for the draconian new parking fines recently applied in Trim (Meath Chronicle 28/1/12). Apparently, because the local businesses won't pay their dues on time, the slack must be taken up by the unwitting motorists who foolishly decide to shop or visit the town, or so his twisted logic would suggest. Myself and my work colleague would have appreciated a warning about the new regime, particularly the withdrawal of the free Saturday afternoon parking, before we parked in front of the castle two weeks ago. As we both work in the castle itself, doing our best to keep visitors IN the town, you can imagine our shock when we discovered the €40 surprise waiting for us at the end of our day. However, at least we can now warn our visitors what to expect if they inadvertently overstay their welcome. At least the nice, clean streets won't get messed up by untidy tourists! Yours, Susan Brennan. Cardiffstown, Kilmessan.