Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Rock for raising the issue of electric scooters and providing us with the opportunity to discuss it.

I am of course aware of the increasing number of electric scooters, electrically powered skateboards and similar small vehicles on our footpaths and roads. I will start by advising the Deputy of the current legal position in respect of such vehicles. It is important that we get such clarity on the matter before we go any further or make any statement about it. The Road Traffic Act 1961 defines a mechanically propelled vehicle as a vehicle intended or adapted for propulsion by mechanical means, including a bicycle or tricycle with an attachment for propelling it by mechanical power, whether or not the attachment is being used. It also includes a vehicle, the means of propulsion of which is electrical or partly electrical and partly mechanical. Electric scooters and powered skateboards fall into this category and are, therefore, considered to be mechanically propelled vehicles. Any users of such vehicles in a public place, as defined in the Road Traffic Act 1961, must have insurance, road tax and a driving licence. There are 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.

As it is currently not possible to tax or insure electric scooters or electric skateboards, they are not considered suitable for use in a public place. As the Deputy knows, I have requested the Road Safety Authority to research how electric scooters and other such vehicles are regulated in other countries, particularly other EU member states. I am keen to understand the road safety implications of the use of such vehicles on public roads, especially when interacting with other vehicles. Road safety is paramount. I am due to receive the outcome of the authority's research within the next few weeks. Until I have received it, I will not make a decision on what actions, if any, to take. I will need to be persuaded that permitting such vehicles on our roads will not give rise to safety concerns for the users themselves and for all other road users, including cyclists, pedestrians and motorists. In this context, I expect the Road Safety Authority to include in its consideration whether there is a potential inability of the scooterist to obey some basic rules of the road; difficulties with lighting electric scooters so that they are easily visible to other road users; the absence of suspension or shock absorption, which places the scooterist in danger on an uneven road surface; and insurance issues in the event of a collision. The Deputy should further note that, should I decide the benefits derived from the use of electric scooters outweigh the risks associated with using this type of transport, an amendment to primary legislation would be required.

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