Sinn Féin TD for Dublin North-West Dessie Ellis has appealed to parents not to buy quads and scramblers this Christmas as Christmas presents for their children.

Deputy Ellis said:

“Despite recent successes by An Garda Síochana in seizing over thirty Quads and Scramblers in recent months in the Finglas area, their illegal use remains a constant danger and anti-social nuisance to the community.

“I urge parents and responsible individuals to consider the effects the illegal use of such vehicles have on their neighbours and their community. Parents should also reflect on the danger to the young people illegally using them on public roads and parks often without helmets or any other safety equipment or even insurance.

“A number of young people have died or have been seriously injured riding quads and scramblers and innocent passers-by have also been injured by the reckless riding of scramblers and quads on roads, footpaths, on greens and in public spaces.

“In some estates and parks the scramblers and quads are out every single day and people, especially the elderly, don’t feel safe walking the streets or taking their dogs out for a walk in the park.

“For many, there is no break for this activity. The noise pollution from the vehicles can run from early in the morning to very late into the night.

“I am asking people to please think before you buy.”

Asking the Taoiseach if I could get a copy of the report that the cross agency committee on quads and scramblers was said to have issued last February. I have asked for this report before without success. I need clarity from the government if such a report was issued and what were its recommendations.