Gardai launch operation targeting misuse of scrambler bikes in Limerick city

AN GARDA Síochána have launched an operation to tackle the misuse of scrambler bikes in Limerick city.

The operation was announced in the Joint Policing Committee meeting in the Limerick City and County Council’s (LCCC) chambers in Dooradoyle.

The operation launched this Monday, March 6 was brought into motion due to the anti-social behaviour, miseducation and misuse of scrambler bikes in the city and county.

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Labour Councillor for Limerick City North Conor Sheehan brought forward the motion to tackle the misuse of scrambler bikes along the canal banks of the north side of the city.

Cllr Sheehan mentioned that the misuse of these bikes is causing concern amongst citizens in the area as they fear for their safety as some scrambler bikes have been “driven towards them at speed”.

Chairperson of the JPC Cllr Adam Teskey seconded the motion.

A member of An Garda Síochána who was present at the JPC meeting last Friday gave a commitment that they will be targeting the north side of the city in areas such as Moyross and along the canal banks in regard to the anti-social behaviour caused by the misuse of scrambler bikes.

Cllr Sheehan welcomed the operation but mentioned that the setting up of a task force or sub-committee of the JPC including the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to look at the scrambler issue would be beneficial.

“Can we bring a resolution to this? I feel like there is a lot of time spent chasing and seizing these bikes,” Cllr Sheehan said.

Limerick city and Sinn Féin TD Maurice Quinlivan was also present at the JPC meeting.

“I welcome the focused approach on the north side of the city but scramblers are also massive on the south side including Southill,” Deputy Quinlivan said.

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The Sinn Féin deputy also mentioned city centre areas such as William Street and People’s Park also see a high level of anti-social behaviour due to the misuse of the bikes.

“It affects people working from home hearing scramblers morning, noon and night when they are attending meetings online. It’s embarrassing for them.

“Innocent people will be killed. It’s very very dangerous,” Deputy Quinlivan added.