The anti-social use of scramblers and quad bikes on the Curragh will be targeted this month thanks to a new initiative to identify and assist local communities most affected by the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes.
Kildare Senator Fiona O’Loughlin welcomed the initiative stating that there has been issues around the Curragh with scramblers for years.
The Kildare Senator said: “The anti-social use of scramblers and quad bikes in urban and rural communities poses a potentially serious risk to public safety, as well as impacting negatively on residents’ enjoyment of their local area such as The Curragh.”
The Department of Justice, in collaboration with An Garda Síochána and other partners, have agreed to local communities most affected by the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes and invite applications from local consortiums for financial assistance for projects to promote pro-social use of these vehicles. It is envisaged that these local projects such as The Curragh will provide opportunities for training in vehicle handling, repair and maintenance. The projects will also include second-chance education, personal development and mentoring for young people who are interested in using these vehicles for sport and recreation purposes.
According to Senator O’Loughlin the Department of Justice will prepare the detailed requirements for local project proposals and these requirements will be made available as soon as possible. Participation will require a commitment by each young person to complete all aspects of the programme and to abstain from illegal or anti-social use of these vehicles