Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
318. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport whether his Department has reviewed the effectiveness of section 30 of the Road Traffic Act 2004 in preventing the supply of mechanically propelled vehicles to persons under 16 years of age; whether enforcement data has been analysed to assess compliance levels; and whether amendments are under consideration to strengthen retailer obligations. [14694/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraSection 30 of the Road Traffic Act 2004 prohibits the supply of mechanically propelled vehicles to persons under the age of 16. Under this section, ‘supply’ includes sale, gifting or otherwise making the vehicle available to a person.
A person who commits an offence under this section is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding €5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both. This penalty reflects the serious nature of this offence and I have no plans to amend this.
Enforcement of this legislation and analysis of any data in relation to compliance levels is a matter for An Garda Síochána.
