While the DRD wants to charge shoppers to park in towns across Northern Ireland, its employees can take advantage of free parking at its headquarters in Belfast city centre,

The news comes after it emerged that plans are afoot to implement a 'pay and display' system for cars across Northern Ireland.

It means parking will only be available on payment of a charge before purchasing a ticket from a nearby machine in 30 towns and cities, including Ballymena, Ballycastle and Omagh.

Already this type of on-street parking occurs in Belfast, Lisburn and Newry, with the latter having specifically requested its introduction in 2008.

But while motorists across the province can expect to pay up to £1 an hour from as early as next year, civil servants will still be able to avail of free parking.

Indeed, DRD staff will not be expected to pay for parking in any of the 200 car parking spaces allocated to them at their Belfast headquarters, near Adelaide Street.

Glyn Roberts, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA), said the revelation smacked of favouritism.

"It's a bit rich if civil servants don't have to pay for the privilege of parking in the city centre," he said.

"All those working for Government departments, not just the DRD, should lead by example if the idea is to encourage more use of public transport."

A DRD spokeswoman said the proposals represent an extension of the department's existing parking strategy.

"Charging for on-street parking is not a new policy - it is already in place in Belfast, Lisburn and Newry," she said.

"On-street charging is also the norm in a large number of towns in Britain and Ireland.

"On-street charging ensures a turnover of prime spaces close to the main shopping areas, for shoppers and visitors, therefore providing easier access to town centres."

What we are calling for...

The Belfast Telegraph is urging the next DRD Minister to scrap plans to introduce on-street car parking charges in towns across Northern Ireland.

Traders across the province have already expressed through this paper serious concerns about the impact that this plan could have on the character of our town centres. At a time of economic difficulties the Stormont executive should be supporting our local retailers and recognising the vital role they play in the economy.