COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF JOINT POLICING COMMITTEE

Friday, September 11, 2009

QUESTION NO.

QUESTION: Councillor J. Hannon

That action be taken to prevent the use of quad bikes and other motorised vehicles in public and other lands in South Dublin, and with particular reference to the following locations:

• Hellfire Club lands
• Dodder Linear Park at Old Mill and Scoil Carmel
• Kiltalown Public Open Space

REPLY:

Garda Reply:

The illegal use of Quad Bikes and Motorised vehicles in public and other lands in South Dublin was a cause for concern. Through continuous enforcement and attention the problem has been greatly reduced. Bye laws under Forestry Act 1988 (Section 37) (Coilte Teoranta) Bye-Laws 2009 are now in place prohibiting the use of these types of vehicles in Forest Areas.

The problem particularly affects large green areas and public parks. The problem has received ongoing attention, and frequent patrols of these areas occur by local Gardaí to deter and apprehend offenders and impound vehicles where appropriate.

The Gardaí liaise regularly with South Dublin County Council, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, National Parks and Wildlife Services and Dublin Mountains Initiative regarding enforcing bye laws and addressing any issues.

Gardaí also have Keys to parks and carparks to gain access if necessary