What have we done to deserve this, it’s a punishment akin to a crucifixion on the friendly streets of Dublin. I parked one day, went into a chemist, retrieved some photographs and walked back out. The clampers had just put a clamp on my car. I said, “I’m here now, so you can take it off”. “No,” was the reply, “pay the fine.” I pleaded and was almost on my knees before they pulled off.

Is this what we’ve come to, actually talking to them as they clamp. I walked from Sandymount to the docklands, and paid €90 upfront. I was told they would have it off by the time I returned. I know they have a job to do but there seems to be no give and take in their approach. I might be wrong but they actually seemed to be enjoying my dilemma or is that just my imagination.

Another time I was in Dun Laoghaire Art college when I had to park on a piece of ground just off the car park. The ground was in no way hampering other cars. I came out of the college and bang, I was clamped again. I cannot understand the mentality that would clamp everything they see. It was clear that where I had parked was a free space. These guys didn’t even examine the situation. I phoned them up and help arrived one and a half hours later. Another €90 had to be paid.

I have become so paranoid as a result that I may need treatment, my nerves are shattered. Every time I try to park I survey the situation, even in shopping centre car parks. I hear that if any part of the car is over the limit line a clamp will be used. My car isn’t left overnight anywhere, it just shouldn’t happen. It’s a money grabbing law and should be seen as such.

What do you do if your wife is pregnant and you have to park quickly or if someone is hurt and you have to take them to a doctor? Soon your car will be clamped outside your premises, what do we do then. I say it’s time to act now before it’s too late. What sort of welcome is it to tourists when they get clamped everywhere they go.

Pictured above is Angle Grinder Man, who comes to the aid of clamped motorists in Birmingham.