Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am acutely aware of the case of Ilabek Avetian. I extend my sympathies to his wife, Anzhela Kotsinian, and to their families. That tragic incident all too sadly highlights how the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes can cause real damage to people, their families and communities.

I am committed to actively supporting any positive action in respect of this matter. I have received legal advice from the Attorney General and I am committing it to some study. I have been informed by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport that it is also engaged in seeing how best we can deal with this issue.

The use of quad bikes and scramblers in public parks and open spaces is strictly prohibited by local authorities under the 2011 parks and open spaces by-laws. Insofar as national parks are concerned, the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has legislative powers to prohibit the unauthorised use of off-road vehicles in them. There is a cross-departmental remit. I am keen to liaise with Deputies Curran and Lahart, as well as Councillor Charlie O’Connor, on this matter. It is complex but that should not mean that it is not urgent and important.

See this speech in context