Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
310. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport whether he has undertaken any review of the adequacy of statutory seizure powers under the Road Traffic Acts and related legislation in addressing the misuse of scrambler bikes and quad bikes in urban areas; and whether legislative amendment is under consideration [14605/26]
View answer319. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport to outline the proposed financial penalties to be applied to seized scramblers under the forthcoming regulations; whether a regulatory impact assessment has been conducted regarding deterrent effect. [14695/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 310 and 319 together.
Under powers introduced by section 41 of the Road Traffic Act 1994, An Garda Síochána has the power to seize mechanically propelled vehicles, such as scrambler and quad bikes, being driven on public roads without tax or insurance. Once seized, An Garda Síochána has the power to dispose of a seized vehicle three weeks after the date of detention, provided two weeks' notice of the intention to dispose is given. Separate seizure powers, introduced by the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, exist with respect to dangerous driving.
The current fees in respect of a vehicle seized under section 41 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 are set out in Statutory Instrument 460/2011. For a scrambler, the fees are €125 on the day of detention and €35 for each day of storage. While I intend to increase the fees associated with release of scramblers in forthcoming regulations, the precise value is yet to be determined.
