SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone has welcomed Assembly support for new police powers to tackle scramblers and e-scooters engaging in anti-social behaviour.
The amendment to the Justice Bill was proposed by the SDLP, with support from the DUP and Alliance Party.
The amendment would allow police to seize vehicles causing alarm, distress or annoyance without first having to issue a warning.
Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone said, “Communities across the North have been calling for action on the misuse of scramblers and e-scooters and I am pleased that the Assembly has now backed measures that will give police the powers they need to tackle this behaviour.
“For too long, local residents have had to put up with dangerous and anti-social behaviour that has disrupted neighbourhoods, damaged green spaces and put people at risk. This amendment strikes the right balance by giving police the tools they need to intervene while avoiding the unnecessary criminalisation of young people.
“I welcome the support this amendment has received from across the Assembly. This is an issue that affects communities regardless of background or geography and it is encouraging to see parties working together to deliver a practical solution.
“These new powers will help make our communities safer and send a clear message that dangerous and anti-social behaviour involving these vehicles will not be tolerated.”
ENDS
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