It's now free for veterans to park their vehicles in Portage la Prairie.

Council passed a by-law at its meeting Tuesday granting all automobiles displaying Manitoba "Veteran" license plates free parking in the city.

"We chose that route because it was an easier way to allow for (by-law enforcement) to identify who should have free parking and who shouldn't," said Transportation Committee chair Melissa Draycott. "And because of the qualifications you need to have in order to obtain a veteran license plate."

Accorinding to administration's report to council, to obtain a veteran license plate in Manitoba a person must have served honourably in: The Canadian Forces, an allied force, the Merchant Navy or Ferry Command during World War II or the Korean War; the Canadian Armed Forces for at least three years; NATO operations or a UN peacekeeping force as a member of the Canadian Forces; The RCMP or another Canadian police force or allied force.

Royal Canadian Legion executive Bill Pearcey commended council for the move in the public Question Period session of Tuesday's meeting.

"I'm sure veterans here in Portage will certainly appreciate it," he said.

See related story:
"Council Considers Free Parking for Veterans"