Illegal scramblers in residential communities a growing issue, Cork councillor says

Eva Osborne

Cork Councillor Noel O'Flynn has said Grace's Law is a step forward, but that the real challenge now is enforcement.

O'Flynn said the issue of illegal scramblers and off-road bike use in residential communities across Cork and Ireland is a growing one.

He added that Grace's Law sends a clear message that illegal scramblers do not belong on public roads, footpaths, parks, greenways, or residential estates.

“For years, communities across Cork have had to endure dangerous and reckless scrambler activity in public spaces. Families should be able to use parks, estates and public walkways safely without fear of serious injury or intimidation,” O’Flynn said.

“Grace’s Law is an important step forward, but the real challenge now is enforcement.”

O’Flynn said gardaí must be supported through practical and intelligence-led enforcement methods rather than being placed in situations involving dangerous high-speed pursuits through housing estates involving underage riders.

“We cannot expect gardaí to engage in dangerous chases through residential communities. That creates unacceptable risks for the public, gardaí and the young riders themselves.”

“The focus now must be on modern, evidence-based enforcement.”

Cllr O’Flynn is calling for a coordinated enforcement model involving CCTV systems in hotspot areas; Mobile camera units; Drone capability for evidence gathering; and more.

He said there is an important element of parental responsibility where children are being facilitated in the illegal use of scramblers in public areas.

“These vehicles are not toys. Children under 16 cannot legally hold motorcycle licences in Ireland. If underage riders are operating scramblers illegally through public estates and roads, adults are facilitating it somewhere along the chain.

“There must be accountability where adults knowingly enable dangerous and illegal behaviour.”

O’Flynn said Cork should now become a national pilot area for a modern scrambler enforcement strategy.

“As Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork should lead nationally by developing a balanced enforcement model that combines strong policing, community cooperation, technology-led enforcement and safer legal alternatives for young people.

“This is about restoring safety to our communities while protecting young people and supporting responsible motorsport activity.”