Social Democrats co-leader Róisín Shortall TD today called for legal changes to allow gardaí to seize and ‘crush’ scrambler and quad bikes being driven dangerously in public spaces.
Deputy Shortall made the call in support of today’s report by the Finglas Safety Forum which found that three quarters of residents are very concerned about the dangerous and anti-social use of scramblers and quad bikes.
The Dublin North West TD said:
“The government has to take its head out of the sand when it comes to tackling the scourge of the illegal use of these vehicles in parks and recreation areas. The misuse of scramblers and quad bikes is terrorising communities and it is only a matter of time before tragedy strikes again.
“People are sick of the government’s helpless mantra that everything is being done and that the law is adequate. I raised this issue with the Taoiseach in the Dáil just two weeks ago and he said this activity is already covered under section 30 of the Road Traffic Act 2004 and that what is required is better enforcement, education and awareness. This is just not good enough and it shows just how out of touch this government is on issues that are having a real impact on communities.
“I fully support the recommendations in today’s report for legislation to empower gardaí to enter public parks and green areas to seize and ‘crush’ scrambler and quad motorbikes that are being driven dangerously. This is also supported by senior gardaí who are doing their best to tackle this problem but need legal changes to equip them to do it effectively.
“This approach has worked in Merseyside, alongside measures by the police there to properly engage with and educate young people about the dangers of reckless and intimidating use of these vehicles.”
ENDS
19th July 2019
Notes to Editors:
Questions on Promised Legislation, 3rd July 2019
https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/