Quads are used for drug runs

A Dundalk TD has raised concerns about the ‘scourge of quad bikes’ across the town.

Ruairi O’Murchu spoke in the Dáil last week about the concerns of local people in relation to quad bikes, which the Dáil debate heard were being used in some instances to deliver illegal drugs.

‘I have dealt with countless constituents who are worried about the issue of scramblers and quad bikes racing through streets and community green spaces at all hours of the day and night. I refer to estates in Dundalk, council land, parks, private land and even farmland on the edge of town where crops were destroyed by scramblers.’

He added: ‘Yearly, we are told by An Garda and the Road Safety Authority of the serious safety hazard of these powerful machines. They have the potential to injure people severely or fatally. That is why gates and bollards are erected to make it more difficult for scramblers to get into particular areas.’

‘Gardai are often powerless and unable to chase people driving these bikes. That is understandable from a safety point of view. There have been instances when they have chased and seized some of these vehicles and generally that has been impactful.’

‘I accept that some people use quad bikes and scramblers for essential work and for sport. But the use of these bikes for sport must take place in a controlled environment

Every summer, I have received calls regarding groups of kids in fields with scramblers and quads, drinking and doing whatever else and causing havoc for hours on end. We need to ensure we do all we can do deal with this issue. Reference was made to the anti-social behaviour element and even to scramblers being used in drug runs.’