The SDLP is bringing forward an amendment to legislation to give police greater powers to seize scramblers and e-scooters being used in a dangerous or anti-social manner.
The amendment to the Justice Bill would allow police to seize vehicles causing alarm, distress or annoyance without first having to issue a warning.
SDLP Opposition Justice Spokesperson Patsy McGlone MLA said, “For years communities across the North have dealt with the misuse of scramblers being driven dangerously on roads, pathways and green spaces, causing serious disruption and, in some cases, contributing to tragic loss of life. More recently we have also seen the growing misuse of e-scooters, with people travelling at dangerous speeds and putting both themselves and others at risk.
“It is clear that despite efforts to address these issues, including the creation of designated spaces for scramblers, the law continues to be ignored and police do not currently have the powers needed to respond effectively. The requirement to issue a warning beforehand, combined with the dangers involved in pursuing these vehicles, makes it far too easy for offenders to evade consequences.
“Nobody wants to see young people injured or ending up with a criminal record, but communities also have the right to feel safe. We need to give police practical powers to remove these vehicles quickly and safely when they are being used irresponsibly. We will be working with other parties to build support for this amendment and I would urge MLAs to back these proposals and end the lawlessness surrounding these vehicles.”
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