THE CHARGES INVOLVED in getting back a scrambler after it has been seized by gardaí is set to double next month.

Seán Canney, minister of state at the Department of Transport, has signed new regulations to double the charges payable by owners of scramblers seized and detained by An Garda Síochána.

The new regulations will come into effect on 14 August.

In April, a total ban on scrambler use in public places or on public roads came into force.

Gardaí were also given enhanced powers of seizure to reduce the number of seized vehicles that end up back on the roads.

A spokesperson said the doubling of charges involved with the detention, removal and storage of scramblers is intended to “better reflect” the costs involved with this process.

The spokesperson added that the increased costs will “strengthen the deterrent against illegal and dangerous scrambler use”.

Canney said the doubling in charges for seized scramblers “sends a clear message that illegal and dangerous scrambler use carries real consequences”.

He added: “These increased charges ensure there are real financial consequences where a scrambler is seized by An Garda Síochána.”

Canney said that people whose scramblers are detained “should bear the cost of removing and storing them” and that the increased fees will “provide a stronger deterrent and supporting gardaí in keeping our roads and communities safe”.

The new charge for detention, removal and the first day’s storage will be €250, with an extra fee of €70 for each additional day.