Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

119. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the actions he will take to address the problem of quad bikes in view of a recent incident in which a person was seriously injured and many other similar incidents reported over recent times relating to the widespread and dangerous use of quad bikes and scramblers; and the timescale proposed for same. [26129/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

At the outset, I would like to express my wishes that the person who was injured last Saturday makes a full and speedy recovery.

The issue of misuse of scramblers and quad bikes is one that is taken very seriously by the Government.

The Deputy is already aware that my officials convened a cross-agency meeting on the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes on 25 April 2018. Represented at the meeting were the Departments of Transport, Tourism and Sport; Housing, Planning and the Environment; and Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht; An Garda Síochána; the Road Safety Authority; and the Revenue Commissioners. A separate meeting also took place with a representative from Dublin City Council on 23 April, as the representative unable to attend the cross-agency meeting.

I asked my officials to arrange these consultations to identify whether there are additional legislative or other solutions which can assist in dealing with the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes more comprehensively. I am informed that at this meeting, the issue of the misuse of scramblers within public parks was a particular point of focus.

My officials are now consulting further with local authorities in the context of the many examples of positive engagement fostered by local authorities with local communities, as a number of initiatives and projects are of potential interest insofar as the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes are concerned. Possible options for further discussion include the provision of designated areas, where such vehicles could be used in a safe environment.

The incident in Darndale Park on Saturday underscores the dangers associated with the misuse of these vehicles, particularly in unsuitable environments, where the potential for serious injuries to innocent bystanders exists.

I have requested a Garda report in relation to the incident referred to by the Deputy and I will contact the Deputy directly on receipt of same.

I will continue to actively support any positive actions that can be pursued to counteract the serious public safety issues associated with the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes.