Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I had proposed in this section to introduce a new section into the 2004 Act restricting the sale and supply of e-scooters to people aged over 16. This measure was made with the intention of reducing the risk of injury to minors from PPT use and, indeed, potential injury caused by minors to pedestrians and other vulnerable road users. However, my Department has identified several significant implementation challenges. There is no suitable mechanism to record PPT supply as vehicles falling into that category do not require registration. Furthermore, it can be expected that many purchases will be private second-hand sales or will take place on websites based outside the EU. In addition, no licence system is proposed for driving an e-scooter and there is no requirement in Ireland to carry proof of age. In light of those factors, I no longer consider that this provision will be enforceable and, consequently, I suggest it be withdrawn.