Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I draw the attention of the House to legislation that will be introduced by my colleagues, Deputies McAuliffe and Lahart, in Dáil this evening. The legislation in question relates to scrambler and quad bikes and the social use of them in our communities. I live in the constituency of Dublin Central and I am aware that the use of these bikes has been an issue right across the city and outside it. The Road Safety Authority stated that there were more than 40 injuries and fatalities over a three-year period and that more than half of the individuals involved were under 18 years of age. This issue is affecting young people and their families. The Private Members' Bill that will be introduced this evening is part of a response to try to regulate the use and control of these quad bikes and scramblers. There is no doubt many people enjoying using them off the road in a responsible way. However, scramblers are available cheaply to purchase for young people under the age of 18 and for others. They do damage in residential, built-up communities such as Cabra, in those communities along the Royal Canal, in beautiful parks such as Tolka Valley Park and to sports pitches.

Of critical importance is the fact that the proposed Private Members' Bill will amend the Road Traffic Act to the effect that the Garda will have the power to enforce the law and prosecute people if there is not registration or insurance on the bikes and it will also have the power to seize them. This House should appeal to Government to support that Bill and appeal to parents and young people not to buy quad bikes and scramblers this Christmas and to enjoy a safe Christmas.