Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
234. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the widespread use of e-scooters by people under the age of 16 years; his plans to address this growing issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3312/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRegulations were introduced in 2024 to allow for the legal use of e-scooters on Irish roads. The safety of vulnerable road users has been of paramount importance when regulating the use of e-scooters, and these regulations are vital to reduce road safety risks.
The Regulations include restrictions on the power, weight, speed and use of e-scooters. E-scooters which comply with the Regulations may be used on public roads and anyone using an e-scooter on a public road must be 16 or older.
Enforcement of the legislation is, as for all road traffic law, under the remit of An Garda Síochána, who can seize e-scooters used by individuals under the age of 16. My officials engage regularly with An Garda Síochána on this matter.
Last month the Road Safety Authority (RSA), the agency responsible for public education and awareness, along with Children’s Health Ireland (CHI), launched a campaign urging parents and guardians not to purchase e-scooters for children under the age of 16 for Christmas. The campaign highlights the very real and devastating consequences of underage e-scooter use.
