Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
296. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport when the review of current e-scooter regulations to make helmets and high-visibility clothing mandatory will commence; when this review will conclude; when the necessary changes will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3362/26]
View answerThe Government introduced regulations in 2024 to provide for the safe use of and technical specifications for e-scooters for use in public places. E-scooters may only be used on public roads if they comply with the 2024 Regulations and the rules of the road apply to e-scooters in the same way as bicycles.
Under the 2024 Regulations, it is an offence for children under 16 to use e-scooters on public roads. This is an important road safety measure, enforcement of which is a matter for An Garda Siochana.
Further regulations address road signs, location restrictions, detention and seizure powers for An Garda Siochana and fixed charge penalties.
Department officials engage regularly with An Garda Siochana on enforcement of e-scooter regulations. Officials have asked them to provide any suggestions or changes to legislation that would assist them in the fulfilment of their enforcement role.
Protective equipment is, as for bicycles and e-bikes, strongly advised but not mandatory in Ireland. The Road Safety Authority, which is responsible for public education and awareness, frequently undertakes campaigns to promote, among pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter users, the need for personal protective equipment and visibility on our roads. The safety benefits of reflective clothing and helmets are set out in detail in the Rules of the Road Booklet.
The Department has begun examining this issue, with a view to considering mandating helmets for these and other vulnerable micromobility users, should the evidence support such a change, and I intend to bring forward proposals in this regard in the near future.
