Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2026
354. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport whether new legislation to regulate e-scooters will restrict their use on public footpaths, greenways, and in public parks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9677/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister of State with responsibility for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that the Government introduced regulations in 2024 for the safe use of e-scooters in public places. E-scooters may only be used on public roads if they comply with the 2024 Regulations, they may not be used on footpaths and the rules of the road apply to e-scooters in the same way as bicycles.
Under the 2024 Regulations, it is an offence to use e-scooters on footpaths. This is an important road safety measure, enforcement of which is a matter for An Garda Siochana. In relation to parks and green ways, e-scooters have the same access to such areas as bicycles, subject to local bye-laws or other restrictions.
In addition to the Regulations, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has launched an educational campaign to inform the public of the new e-scooter regulations and of safe e-scooter use on Irish roads: www.rsa.ie/road-safety/campaigns/e-scooters.
Officials also engage with An Garda Siochana on an ongoing basis with respect to enforcement of e-scooter regulations. My officials have asked them to provide any suggestions or changes to legislation that would assist them in the fulfilment of their enforcement role.
I intend to bring further proposals to Government shortly to introduce additional regulations to improve road safety with regard to e-scooters and other road users.
