Funding for Dublin communities to tackle anti-social use of scramblers and quad bikes is a positive development – Higgins

Funding for community-based projects in Dublin to work with young people involved in the anti-social use of scramblers and quad bikes is a progressive step in making our city safer, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Dublin Mid West Deputy Emer Higgins said: “I am really pleased that funding of €200,000 is being allocated to eight community projects to work with young people involved in the anti-social use of scramblers and quad bikes and related crime.

“The use of scrambler and quad bikes in anti-social behaviour presents a real danger both to users and to citizens and it can be challenging to police, something which my Fine Gael colleague in Clondalkin, Cllr. Kenneth Egan has been doing great work in highlighting.

Speaking on the issue, Cllr Egan said: “The sounds of scrambler bikes on our streets and in our parks has become all too familiar. A lot of people on these bikes are causing intimidation and engaging in anti-social behaviour and this funding is really welcome progress that will deliver action on scramblers and help make communities safer places.”

Deputy Higgins continued: “Minister of State James Browne has stated today that the Anti-Social Behaviour Forum has highlighted that, as well as the Gardai’s role in tackling the misuse of scramblers and quads, engagement with communities and awareness raising are just as important.

“The funding provided to these eight Youth Diversion Projects is important as we know from road safety initiatives that education is essential.

“The groups will be required to consult with other local stakeholders, including the Gardai, and to create a local consortium which will include the local authority.  It is expected that the local authority will in general be responsible for provision of tracks and related facilities. Young people will also be encouraged engage positively to learn motorcycle skills, including maintenance, combined with relevant educational and personal development activities.

“Earlier this year, Government tackled the issue head-on by giving Gardaí extra powers to deal with scramblers and quads by actually seizing them and I thank Ministers Helen McEntee and Hildegarde Naughton for prioritising this.

“Legislation now prohibits mechanically propelled vehicles (MPVs) on public land like our local parks, and also on private land – unless there is explicit permission from the landowner.

“Today’s funding, in addition to these other measures, is such a welcome development,” Deputy Higgins concluded.