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Seanad
‹ An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

Brian Crowley and Grace Lynch

Summary

The speaker first adds condolences for Brian Crowley, then raises the tragic killing of teenage girl Grace Lynch and the need to prevent such violence.

I add my condolences to all those who loved and worked with Brian Crowley. Unfortunately, I did not have the pleasure of knowing him but from hearing party colleagues speak about him, he sounds like an incredible person. I know that his loss is deeply felt. Thank you for your lovely tribute, a Chathaoirligh.

Unfortunately, I also have to voice my deep sympathies and absolute regret and horror on the passing of the teenage girl, Grace Lynch. On Sunday just gone, while she was walking, minding her own business - we believe on her way to meet her boyfriend, living her best 16-year-old life - she was involved in a horrific accident and she instantly lost her life. The person or persons involved were driving a scrambler bike. The use of scrambler bikes on public roads and public spaces is illegal in this country. Unfortunately, a tragic accident has occurred. The matter is being investigated by the Garda and will be before the courts in due course.

While this accident was unpredictable, there have been many calls in this House and in the Lower House for greater action from the Garda in seizing scrambler bikes, which are a scourge in many urban communities around the country. Indeed, in my own area of Limerick we have seen many instances of not just antisocial behaviour, but suspected criminal activity and drug dealing often by youths. In many cases, they are under the age of 16. They are being pushed by criminal gangs to use scrambler bikes and electric scooters to carry out their wishes.

It is a significant issue that the Garda has been asked to deal to with. I add my voice to the concerns that our colleagues from the Dublin constituencies articulated today. Indeed, Senator Comyn joined the meeting with the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, and asked for urgent action to address this issue because it is a blight right across the country, particularly in urban areas.

On a happier note, I wish the best of luck to the 300 workers who will be involved in the construction of Limerick's tallest building, which the ground was broken on yesterday. The Office of Public Works, OPW, commissioned a building that Limerick 2030 will deliver. It will overlook the canal and the river in Limerick city centre. It is part of a regeneration project to revitalise a disused section of our city centre and the OPW will take the building for the Revenue Commissioners, which will have about 950 spaces within it when it is completed. It will be 14-storeys high. I wish everyone involved in the project the best of luck.

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