There is a huge issue with scramblers in my constituency. Following the new laws that came in earlier this year in the aftermath of the tragic death of 16-year-old Grace Lynch, communities were hoping that this would see a reduction in the use of scramblers. However, I have had to phone the Garda numerous times in the intervening period. On Monday night last, I had to phone the Garda three times because of scramblers being driven in a dangerous manner in communities right across the northside, including on St. Mary's Road, Sprigg's Road and Kilmore Road. In Fairfield, there is a beautiful park that Cork City Council put in, a walk-around for people, but the scramblers are using it like a track. I met with people there two weeks ago. They said that they tried to talk to the lads on the scramblers to tell them that it is dangerous but that all they are getting is abuse. We have a serious issue now. Local gardaí tell me they do not have the resources. I am asking the Tánaiste for two things. First, will the Government give the Garda the resources to tackle this and to stop it and to tackle these scramblers? Second, will it give local authorities funding to put in tracks or trails? Some people do not want to play sport. They want to be in the arts or they want to drive cars or bikes. They have to be given an outlet, and right now there is nowhere for them to go. What must happen immediately is that the use of scramblers must be stopped, because I fear there could be another tragedy.

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Thank you.

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