Future of E-scooters stalled while Transport Minister sits over legal loophole – Curran

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West, John Curran has said the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross has failed to introduce a proper regulatory framework for the safe use of e-scooters on our city’s streets despite having received the Road Safety Authorities report on the issue two months ago.

Deputy Curran was speaking after receiving new information through a parliamentary question from Minister Shane Ross in relation to this matter and said, “I am calling on Minister Shane Ross to take urgent action to deal with the legal loophole that is stalling the introduction of a proper regulatory framework for the safe use of these devices on our City’s streets.

“In the Minister’s most recent reply to me he states that a draft report was submitted by the Road Safety Authority to his Department in June and is still being considered by his officials and other key stakeholders, before being formally submitted to him for consideration. The Minister’s lack of any timeline or urgency in relation to this matter is appalling.

“ Currently e-scooters are considered to be mechanically propelled vehicles, therefore users of these vehicles must have insurance, road tax and a driving licence, with penalties under road traffic laws (including fixed charge notices, penalty points, fines and possible seizure of the vehicle) for not being in compliance with these requirements.

“Yet it is currently not possible to tax or insure e-scooters. This contradiction in the legislation is ridiculous and needs urgent attention from Government.

“ The use of e-scooters is becoming increasingly popular across Dublin, especially among young people and this is to be welcomed. They offer a green alternative to commuters making short journeys around the City and suburbs and have the potential to reduce congestion. I see parents using them to do the school drop off while their children scoot or cycle beside them, this has to be encouraged.

“The Government’s reaction has been to look the other way and pretend it isn’t happening. There is no doubt that these devices have the potential to make a very positive impact on transport in the city and we need a plan.

“ Fianna Fáil has already published legislation to set legal parameters for the safe use of e-scooters. The Bill removes the requirement for e-scooters and e-bikes to be taxed and insured by altering the definition of mechanically propelled vehicles. The Fianna Fáil Bill permits the use of e-scooters on Irish roads, but it also lays down a number of safety requirements.

“We want to see less cars on the roads, less congestion and less emissions but we want people to be responsible and safe and to minimise the potential for any accidents and injuries. These devices have the potential to serve the same purpose in our city as they do in many other major European cities, I will continue to follow up with the Minister in relation to this matter”, concluded Deputy Curran.