Individual Post

Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann said an effective public awareness campaign highlighting the dangers of quads and scramblers is needed in the run-up to Christmas.

The West Belfast MLA was speaking after putting a Private Members Bill before the Assembly.

Ms McCann said:

“A number of adults and children have lost their lives or have been seriously injured by these vehicles.

“The death of Valerie Armstrong and the devastation it caused to her family and friends brought this issue into the public arena.

“We need to act before another tragedy occurs.

“I along with other party colleagues and community representatives met with the PSNI and the Justice Minister to see what more can be done to enforce the current legislation.

“Scramblers and quads are intended for off-road use only and it is illegal to drive them on public roads, public footpaths and in public places such as parks.

“We need to ensure that everyone, parents in particular, are aware of the law on scramblers and quads and where they can and cannot be used before they buy them for their children.

“I think it is important we look at how we can run an effective public awareness campaign highlighting the dangers of quads and scramblers is needed in the run-up to Christmas.”