Scrambler incident in Edenmore Park sparks anger

A dangerous scrambler incident in Edenmore Park has sparked anger among local residents after the popular community space was left badly damaged and a member of the public narrowly avoided being struck.

Local Dáil Deputy Tom Brabazon has condemned what he described as “pure hooliganism at its worst” after scrambler bikes reportedly tore up large sections of the park, leaving parts of the green space “ripped and ploughed up and left in pieces”.

Residents reported that a near miss occurred between one of the scramblers and a member of the public in the park yesterday, raising fresh fears about the safety of people using the area.

The incident has reignited concerns in the community about the misuse of scrambler bikes in public parks and residential areas, an issue that has caused frustration for many residents across Dublin in recent years.

Speaking about the Edenmore Park incident, Deputy Brabazon (pictured above) said stronger enforcement and new measures are needed to tackle the problem.

“This is totally unacceptable. I have long since been calling for a pursuit policy similar to that of the London Metropolitan police to be implemented here.

“We recently saw the tragic loss of young Grace’s life in Finglas. It is my understanding that there was a very near miss yesterday with a member of the public.

“As a community and a society, we cannot tolerate any group being effectively untouchable.

“Not only do we need to update our 2023 legislation we need to enforce it immediately.

“The whole reason for non-pursuit advanced previously was that innocent by standers could be injured or worse.

“This has happened on numerous occasions already in the absence of a pursuit policy.

“This problem is a plague on us, and it must be effectively eradicated.

“We need to act. I am also calling on those who live close to where these vehicles are stored to tell an Garda Siochana of their whereabouts.

“The Garda confidential line is available publicly. Do the decent thing and save a life by making a simple anonymous phone call.

“Residents are rightly frustrated.

“They want to see parks protected and they want to know that action is being taken to prevent further incidents before someone is seriously hurt.

“These spaces are meant for the public’s enjoyment and are not to be turned into racetracks.

“The misuse of scramblers has been an issue in many communities for far too long.

“We cannot wait for another tragedy before stronger measures are taken.”

Local parks such as Edenmore Park are widely used by families, walkers and children playing sport, and residents say incidents involving scrambler bikes have become an increasing concern.

Damage caused by scramblers can also leave lasting scars on green spaces, with churned grass and deep tyre marks often requiring costly repairs by local authorities.

The issue has been the subject of repeated calls for tougher action from politicians and community groups, who argue that current laws and enforcement measures are not sufficient to deter those responsible.

Deputy Brabazon said the situation cannot continue and warned that stronger enforcement and community cooperation will be needed to prevent a more serious incident.

Residents, he said, want reassurance that public spaces will remain safe and protected for the people who use them every day.