Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 632: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the measures in place to tackle anti-social behaviour carried out by individuals on scramble bikes, quad bikes and motor bikes in residential areas and local communities; if he has plans to strengthen the laws to tackle this type of anti-social activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16521/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that they are aware of public concern at the misuse of the types of vehicles mentioned by the Deputy in certain areas, including public parks, and that they take a proactive approach in dealing with the matter. When persons are found using such vehicles in breach of legislation appropriate action, as circumstances dictate, is taken.

I am also informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda patrols target areas and public parks where the activities described by the Deputy are likely to be committed, to detect and deter offenders from such activity. Community Gardaí and Garda Mountain Bike Units are utilised to great effect in targeting this type of activity. Gardaí liaise with park wardens and other local authority personnel to address these issues and where appropriate recommend preventative measures. In certain areas specific initiatives have been put in place to target this activity.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that section 41 of the Road Traffic Act, 1994 provides a power for a member of An Garda Síochána to detain vehicles used in a public place where the driver is too young to hold a driving licence, the vehicle is not insured or the vehicle has not been taxed for three months or more. These powers are fully utilised by the Garda authorities.