Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The use of scramblers, antisocial behaviour and organised crime present a real threat to law and order in urban communities. The revs and the roars of scramblers translate into anxiety, intimidation and fear in communities, which is simply unacceptable. I am really pleased, therefore, that the Government has already drafted legislation in respect of this matter which will allow for the seizure of these vehicles when they are used in public places.

Clondalkin councillor Kenneth Egan and my Government colleague, Deputy McAuliffe, have done considerable work in shaping this Government legislation. In my area of Clondalkin, Councillor Egan has been a voice for people who were too scared to speak up. These people just do not want to live in places that are unsafe. They want safe communities, safe parks and safe streets. I welcome the Government's legislation, which will give extra powers to gardaí so they can tackle this where it counts, namely, on our streets, in our parks and on our footpaths.

Communities are simply fed up listening to the revs and roars. They are fed up of the intimidation and the antisocial behaviour. The legislation that the Government is finalising will change that. It will make a real difference to our communities across Dublin and in urban areas throughout the country. I welcome the Government's initiative on this.

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