Dublin South West TD, Seán Crowe, has described the decision of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to block a Sinn Féin bill, that would have helped tackled the scourge of quads and scramblers bikes, as disappointing and another example of how out of touch they are with communities.

The Sinn Féin TD said that the legislation would have given the Gardaí additional powers to seize scramblers and quads in public parks, stop the sale of quads and scrambler bikes to minors, introduced additional safety requirements, and stopped the illegal use of scramblers and quads in parks and green spaces.

Deputy Seán Crowe said:

“It is deeply disappointing that this Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil government have blocked efforts by Sinn Féin to tackle the scourge of scramblers and quads in our communities. This is another example at how out of touch they are with the reality of daily life for residents in many communities.

“Scramblers and quads are making life hell for residents living in parts of Dublin South West. Parks and greens should be inclusive spaces, but the reality is that many of our vulnerable citizens are too afraid to use these spaces when these vehicles are active. Those who use these vehicles are risking their own lives and anyone who crosses their path is facing serious injury or worse.

“Our legislation would have given the Gardaí additional powers to deal with those who operate quad and scrambler bikes illegally in our public spaces.

“The Bill was not against scramblers or quads, those who operate them in designated areas, or legitimate road users. The Bill was targeted at those who drive them without a licence, insurance or registration, who drive dangerously, and who make life a living hell for residents in our communities.

“I co-sponsored legislation on this issue in the Dáil with my Sinn Féin colleague Dessie Ellis in 2014 and we were told at the time that the government would reflect on the issue. The quads and scramblers problem has got significantly worse since then and there has been no action from the government.

“It is deeply disappointing that this week the Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil government blocked new legislation, that in my opinion, would have would helped to tackle the escalating problems that communities face due right across the State by the misuse of scramblers and quads.”

ENDS