'Scrambler bikes are lethal weapons': Cork City Council unanimously backs total ban

Council votes to write to the transport minister calling for a complete ban on the sale of motorised scrambler bikes

Scrambler bikes, e-scooters, and e-bikes seized by gardaí during Operation Meacán in July. Picture: An Garda Síochána

Scrambler bikes are lethal weapons and should be banned from general sale like guns are, Cork City Council has heard.

A vote was unanimously passed to write to the Minister for Transport to advocate a complete ban on the sale of motorised scrambler bikes to the general public by Cork City Council tonight, Monday.

Fine Gael councillor Joe Kavanagh called for a ban on the sale of scrambler bikes except in very restricted circumstances. 

Despite the ban of these vehicles on public roads, they continue to be a safety concern for communities, especially for children, he said.

Grace's Law a success

“The recent introduction of Grace's Law is proving to be a success with the enhancement of Garda powers but the introduction of a complete ban on the sale of these scramblers would certainly enhance further the effectiveness of this law as it would certainly limit the availability and easy access to these bikes,” Mr Kavanagh’s motion said.

“Purchase of such a vehicle should be significantly restricted and only be permitted with a special permit issued only for use as a sporting scrambler bike for events such as motocross and any other such racing events.” 

Independent councillor Paudie Dineen said that scrambler bikes are lethal weapons, like guns are.

"I can't walk in to a shop and buy a shotgun," he said, adding that the sale of scrambler bikes should be no different as "they are lethal weapon too".

"We need restrictions on the sale of these lethal weapons," he said.

Grace's Law banned the use of scrambler bikes in public places this year after the death of 16-year-old Grace Lynch who was hit and killed by a scrambler bike on a pedestrian crossing in Finglas.

Grace Lynch died after being struck by a scrambler bike. The law passed in her name bans the use of scrambler bikes in all public places. Picture: RIP.ie

Fianna Fáil councillor Tony Fitzgerald said that since Grace's Law was introduced, and since an increase in garda patrols in Cork City, he has seen a decrease in the use of scrambler bikes.

He called for parents to be urged against buying scrambler bikes for their children in the run-up to Christmas.

Sinn Féin councillor Joe Lynch said that scrambler bikes are a scourge and have no legitimate use in public places.

The sooner the government adopts Cork City Council's proposal to ban their sale, except for sporting use, the better, he said.