An Garda Síochána seized a total of 91 quads, 50 scramblers and 91 e-scooters last year under The Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, according to new figures provided to the Minister for Justice.

This compares to 28 quads seized in 2023, 67 scramblers and 24 e-scooters, with data based upon the PULSE system which is liable to change, according to gardaí.

Independent TD Carol Nolan requested the information following her comments about damage caused to trails on the Slieve Bloom Mountains by off road scramblers or quads.

There are around 80km of new mountain bike trails with trailheads at Kinnitty and Baunreagh, developed by Coillte in partnership with Offaly and Laois County Councils with funding received from the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Deputy Nolan said there has been a “dramatic increase” in the number of concerns being raised with her about the illegitimate use of quads and motorcross bikes on the trails.

The Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan stated that the responsibility for all operational policing matters falls to the garda commissioner.

"This government is committed to tackle anti social behaviour in our communities by ensuring that An Garda Síochána will have sufficient powers to tackle the misuse of e-scooters and scramblers," the Minister O'Callaghan said.

The Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 was signed into law in June 2023. Among its provisions, the act aims to tackle the antisocial use of scramblers and quads through measures such as granting An Garda Síochána new powers of seizure.

Garda operations targeting the illegal use of those vehicles involve all members who are assigned to operational duties.

Gardaí have continued to highlight dangers associated with use of the vehicles in order to combat what the minister described as "dangerous behaviour".

Minister O'Callaghan said it is "hoped" that this combined approach of increased powers and alternative options will have "significant impact" in tackling the problem.