Increase fees to get seized scramblers back – Neville

Tougher measures are needed to get scramblers returned once seized, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Joe Neville said current penalties to release scramblers are too low and fail to act as a meaningful deterrent for those caught illegally using these vehicles.

“Currently, to release a seized scrambler the fees are €125 on the day of detention and €35 for each day of storage.

“We need to see a substantial increase in the fees. I want to see this fee doubled, with an increase to a minimum €250 for the day of detention and €70 for each day of storage.

“It was reported today that since the start of 2026 there have been 283 seizures of these high-powered vehicles, with 54 scramblers seized. This is a huge increase on 2025 and shows that not only is there an increase in the availability of these vehicles, but the Gardaí are clamping down on the use of them.

“Residents in our cities and towns are fed up with the constant noise from these vehicles, let alone the intimidation and danger they cause to other road users as they are driving at high speeds illegally on our roads.

“This week the RSA published a report on scramblers that showed young men are more likely to be involved in scrambler-related collisions. We must send a clear message that the use of scramblers on public roads will not be tolerated.

“We see the danger on our streets. As a government we must act fast to ensure safety on our roads for all and give the Gardaí the necessary powers to protect all other road users.

“I am calling on the Minister for Justice to work alongside Minister Canney to majorly increase the on-the-spot fee given to users caught using illegal scramblers and to also hike up the cost of each day the vehicle is in Garda storage,” concluded Deputy Neville.