Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 January 2016
244. Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the current legislation on the use of quad or scrambler bikes is sufficient; if he will improve its enforcement; if he will improve the legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1713/16]
View answerQuadricycles and scrambler bikes are mechanically propelled vehicles, which means that they are vehicles intended or adapted for propulsion by mechanical or electrical power. As such, irrespective of engine capacity, under the Road Traffic Acts the user of such vehicles in a public place must have insurance, road tax, a driving licence or learner permit and wear a helmet. Furthermore, such vehicles, when used in a public place, must comply with the requirements of the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment & Use of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 2002 and the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 1996. Those Regulations prescribe the requirements in relation to essential matters such as brakes, steering, lighting etc. Enforcement of the legislation is a matter for the Garda Síochána. I do not have any plans to amend the legislation, which I believe to be sufficiently broad in its application in respect of the use of such vehicles in a public place.
