Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Much of the legislation to deal with this matter does come under the remit of the road traffic area, which is the responsibility of my Department. One matter which the Deputy has raised and on which I will check up and ask that a response would be provided to her relates to the definition of a public place. She gave the example of laneways. From my constituency work I am aware that frequently it can be difficult to define whether a laneway is private property or who owns it. It is my understanding that based on the definition of a public place in the context of road traffic law, the issue raised by the Deputy would be addressed, given that a public place is defined as an area to which the public has access, as opposed to a more traditional definition of an area owned by the public. The issue relates to access. I will ask for clarification on the matter and I will provide the information to the Deputy, which she might wish to share with the local Garda or others in the community.

I accept the point made by Deputy Byrne. I can see in the part of the city I represent that there are more such vehicles around and that they present a considerable threat to people when used in an illegal manner. While I am satisfied that the legislation governing the area is adequate, I am also aware that it is very difficult to enforce the law if someone is driving illegally on a vehicle in a public park in which children or families are present. I will revert to the Deputy on a definition of a public place as that falls within my area of responsibility and if I can be of any further help to the Deputy, I will be.

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