Call for scrambler and scooter scourge in Louth to be tackled
Louth TD Joanna Byrne says scrambler and scooter scourge in the county must be tackled
Sinn Féin TD for Louth and East Meath Joanna Byrne has once again called on the Government and the Garda Commissioner to urgently tackle the scrambler and scooter scourge that is ongoing in multiple residential areas in Drogheda.
Teachta Byrne said. “This conversation has come to prominence again following the discourse around shocking social media glorifying dangerous, reckless and illegal behaviour, including dangerous driving on our motorways in recent days.
“Tragically these matters only seem to become a priority when lives are lost, when parents are forced to campaign for legislative change, and when the Government are responding to a crisis.
“However, this is not a new issue, its one I have raised on multiple occasions.
Deputy Byrne said espite extensive Dáil debate, engagement with the Garda Commissioner, and horrifying injury statistics from OLOLH “scramblers and scooters are still tearing through estates like Moneymore, Rathmullen and St. Finian’s Park” .
“Communities in this constituency haven’t seen the benefit of Graces Law.”, she continued.
“Gardaí in the area have not been given any extra training or resources to enforce this law.
“And it’s clear that the masked gangs on scramblers and scooters have NO fear of any consequences.
“I have asked both the Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner to address the concerns regarding the necessary pursuit training and additional resources needed to urgently tackle this scourge, and I will be continuing my calls for the potential of an anti-scrambler unit in Louth when the Dáil resumes.
“It simply isn’t good enough for the Minister and the Government to continue overlooking community safety, and abandon communal spaces in working class areas - hoping tragedy wont strike.
“If this blight of anti-social and criminal behaviour is allowed to continue, sadly it’ll only be a matter of time before the loss of life which unfolded on our national roads over the past week, darkens the doors here locally too.
“Whether it’s dangerous driving with cars on roads, or this intimidatory behaviour of scramblers in estates, Gardai need to be resourced with the adequate resources and training to stamp it out, as a matter of urgency.
“Residents deserve peace and safety in their homes and neighbourhoods, and I won’t rest until Government step up and deliver it.”