Motorcyclists to protest after 215 motorbikes stolen so far this year as gardaí deal with ‘out of control’ robbery gangs

According to figures obtained by the Irish Independent, 215 motorbikes have been stolen across Ireland so far this year, as well as 70 e-scooters, 31 scooters and three quad bikes.

Today’s protest is being organised by Motorcyclists of Ireland, a community that was organised to promote the interests, safety and security of motorcycle enthusiasts.

Starting at 11am on the Long Mile Road, riders will take a designated route through Crumlin, the Coombe, past St Patrick’s Cathedral, with garda support from around St Stephen’s Green, concluding at Molesworth Street.

“The event, organised by concerned riders and motorcycle enthusiasts, aims to raise awareness about the issue and call for greater powers and resources for An Garda Síochána to combat this criminal activity,” a spokesman said.

“In recent years, motorcycle theft has become a significant concern for riders in Ireland, with organised gangs targeting bikes for theft, joyriding and resale.

“These thefts not only result in financial losses for owners but also pose a serious safety risk to riders and the public, while driving up the cost of insurance premiums for all vehicle owners,” he added.

“We are tired of seeing our fellow riders become victims of motorcycle thefts orchestrated by organised criminal gangs,” said one of the organisers of the protest.

“As passionate motorcycle enthusiasts, we refuse to stand idly by while these criminals continue to operate with impunity. It’s time for the authorities to take decisive action to protect our community and put an end to this scourge,” he said.

The protest comes after the Irish Independent revealed last month that gardaí are attempting to deal with several “out of control” teenaged robbery gangs, with a car or bike stolen in ­Dublin every three hours.

The development comes as gardaí have raised concerns about offenders “exploiting inadequacies” in their capacity to respond to criminals using the road network.

Figures show that in the first eight weeks of this year, more than 450 cars and bikes were stolen in Dublin.

This week, Social Democrats TD Cian O’Callaghan issued a written question to Justice Minister Helen McEntee asking was she aware of the increase in motorbike theft, specifically expensive types of motorbikes, and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Mr O’Callaghan who represents Dublin Bay North said he was left disappointed with the minister’s response which he described as “weak”.

Pointing out that he has also written to Garda ­Commissioner Drew Harris about the ­spiralling crimewave, Mr O’Callaghan said: “There needs to be a more proactive response from gardaí.

“I don’t have a sense that this matter is being taken seriously. The fact the people are protesting about this highlights just how serious the situation is.”

In her response, Ms ­McEntee did not provide any figures in relation to the theft epidemic, saying: “I am advised by the garda authorities that An Garda Síochána investigates all motorbike thefts and tackles motorbike theft on a number of fronts, including targeted enforcement.

“An Garda Síochána is committed to carrying out enforcement and have initiated a number operations targeting motorbike theft across the country.”

However, many gardaí have been left frustrated that there is not a targeted operation to tackle the criminals behind the thefts of motorbikes and other vehicles.

A directive for gardaí with basic driving training states that they are not permitted to engage in any active role during a pursuit.

The Garda Representative Association (GRA) has said inadequate training and an ambiguous policy around pursuits makes it difficult for gardaí to pursue suspects.