With statistics in the South showing the three-out-of-four people killed on quads, scramblers and other similar vehicles were under 18 and the Garda have actively advised parents not to buy quads for Christmas, the police in Fermanagh have urged parents to remember they are not toys. 

“While the use of these machines can be fun and exciting, anyone thinking about buying a mini-moto, go-ped, scrambler, quad or other off-road vehicle must first think about where it is going to be used and the legalities surrounding its’ use,” Inspector Rory Hoy told the Herald. 

“They are not toys. They must not be on the pavements, roads, public property or parks and should only ever be used on private property with permission from the land/property owner.”

Insp Hoy stressed: “It is vital that children and young people understand and respect the power of these machines and it is critically important that the appropriate safety equipment is used and that their use is properly supervised.”

Reminding all users that many of these vehicles were strictly restricted to “off road use only”, Inspector Hoy said the law was clear that any that were legally allowed on the road must be taxed an insured, and have the appropriate fittings such as lights and number plates. 

“Vehicles driving on public ‘green spaces’ are guilty of an offence, regardless of the manner of the driving. In both cases the police have a power to seize the vehicle,” he added. 

 “At best, no parent wants their child brought home for any wrongdoing or referred to the PSNI Youth Diversion Officer for prosecution purposes. At worst, people have been killed and seriously injured using these machines.”

Insp Hoy concluded: “Imagine the tragedy of a Christmas gift being responsible for a death or life-long disability.”