COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, January 18, 2017

MOTION NO. 5

MOTION: Councillor F. Timmons

''That South Dublin County Council look at possible locations for a Scrambler-Quad Park / Area and report back on what steps they can and will take to make the communities safer and also identify what are the pros and cons of providing such a space.''

REPORT:

The Council is conscious of ongoing issues relating to use of scramblers and quads, and continues to liaise with An Garda Síochána in relation to authorised and safe use of such vehicles.

Being mindful of dangers, the Council, Gardaí and Motorcycling Ireland recently mounted a collaborative high awareness campaign to deter parents from buying quad bikes and scramblers as Christmas presents.

The campaign asked that parents be informed of the legal requirements around these bikes and the use of them. This includes necessity to ensure quad/ scramblers users are wearing the right protection, are trained in how to handle the vehicle, and are responsible enough to only use them in suitable locations such as official race tracks or on private property (if they have received permission from the landowner). 

It was also highlighted that anyone who drives a quad or mini-bike must be over 16, wear a helmet, hold a valid driving license and have the appropriate tax and insurance.

No site identification process has been initiated, or finances allocated, to facilitate any imminent provision of a Scrambler-Quad Park / Area in the Clondalkin area.  Any future such consideration will have regard to the objectives of the Council's Parks and Open Spaces Strategy which is currently being developed.