Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

185. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on imposing increased safety requirements on the use of quad bikes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8884/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is already comprehensive legislation in place governing the use of scrambler bikes, quad bikes and similar small vehicles in a public place.  For the purposes of the Road Traffic Acts, a "public place" means any public road, and any street, road or other place to which the public have access with vehicles whether as by right or by permission and whether subject to or free of charge.  The use of such vehicles in other areas, such as in parks and on private land, is beyond the jurisdiction of my Department. 

Where quad bikes and scramblers are used on public roads they are treated as any other mechanically propelled vehicle, and irrespective of engine capacity, they fall within the remit of road traffic legislation. 

The user of such vehicles must have insurance, road tax and a driving licence, and must also wear a helmet, with severe penalties (including fixed charge notices, penalty points, fines and possible seizure of the vehicle) under road traffic laws for not being in compliance with these requirements.

Quad bikes, scramblers bikes and similar vehicles which are being used in a public place must also comply with the requirements of Regulations concerning roadworthiness, which cover essential matters such as brakes, steering, mirrors, safety glass, wipers, headlamps, rear lighting, indicators and reflectors.  Vehicles which do not meet these requirements may not be driven in a public place under road traffic legislation.

Enforcement of all road traffic legislation is a matter for an Garda Síochána.