John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Committee members spoke about road safety and deaths on the roads, but recently we have seen another issue in regard to roads - the racing of sulkies and accidents and unsocial behaviour caused by this activity. What is the Garda response to that? Are there specific laws or local by-laws applying to that and can the Garda engage with those involved and stop that activity? In some areas, it seems that is not the case and those involved seem to be able to carry out this activity without any concern for the law. This is of huge concern to local communities. Without casting any reflection on the Garda, the response currently is such that this racing continues and dead horses have been found on the public road after this activity. Why is this happening? If the force is engaging with the community and has the ability to deal with this, why does an activity such as this continue?