As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that, while personal protective equipment (PPE) is strongly advised for bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters, it is not currently mandatory. The Department of Transport is examining this issue, with a view to considering mandating helmets and other PPE for vulnerable road users.
The Road Safety Authority, the agency responsible for public education and awareness, frequently undertakes campaigns to promote awareness, among pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter users, of 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 (www.rsa.ie/docs/default-source/road-safety/r1---rules-of-the-road/ruleoftheroad_book-for-web.pdf?sfvrsn=b5d57830_7).
Department officials engage with An Garda Siochana on an ongoing basis with respect to enforcement of e-scooter e-bikes & cycling regulations. My officials have asked them to provide any suggestions or changes to legislation that would assist them in enforcement.
As we approach the two-year anniversary of the first regulations legalising the use of certain e-scooters on Irish roads in May 2024, it is appropriate that we look at the evidence and consider if additional regulation is warranted to promote road safety on these devices, and this includes consideration of personal protective equipment requirements. However, no decisions have been taken in this regard, and any proposals will first be presented at a future meeting of the Government.
