Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have an amendment in this grouping. With respect to the Minister, the definition that has been put forward in terms of PPTs is not necessarily clear that it is solely designed in terms of e-scooters. My concern relates to cargo bikes, such as those that may be used by families, as well as the definition of pedal bicycles here. Where do cargo bikes fit in? I have sought to include them here, in the PPT space, but I would be happy if I felt confident they were included under the definitions in respect of pedal bicycles or mechanically powered vehicles. There is an ambiguity in terms of where and how they sit, however, and that is what I am seeking to address.

Our amendment specifically seeks to ensure there is clarity in respect of pedal cargo bicycles. The increased use of cargo bikes that are largely electronically assisted is a positive and transformative initiative in terms of their usage for transport, leisure and last-mile delivery. They can be used by small businesses as well by families. Their increased usage is constructive and can contribute to freeing up cities. In the context of moving towards the ten-minute town or the 15-minute city, it is important to ensure persons can transport loads of various kinds without automatically having to revert to using a car to do so.

I have no doubt about the enthusiasm of the Minister in respect of cargo bikes. I have lots more on the many benefits of e-assist cargo bikes. A study by the University of Westminster has shown their environmental benefits, as well as the benefits in terms of efficiency and productivity. What I am looking for is where they fit in. There is a clear restriction under the definition of PPTs, which refers to vehicles "constructed for the carriage of a single person, but not designed or constructed ... for the carriage of goods", while the definition of "pedal bicycle" refers to "person or persons". There are two issues here, one relating to the carriage of goods and the other relating to the carriage of multiple persons. A "pedal bicycle" is defined as being "a bicycle which is intended or adapted for propulsion solely by the physical exertions of a person or persons seated on it". That does not cover family bicycles or the family usage of cargo bikes, especially electric cargo bikes. The next part of the definition, which refers to "a bicycle capable of propulsion solely by the physical exertions of a person or persons seated on it, and equipped with an auxiliary electric motor" may cover it but there is no specific reference therein to the carriage of goods. I am concerned there could be an inadvertent interpretation of the PPT piece to suggest the carriage of goods on a cargo bike is legally ambiguous and those transporting goods in such a manner are not covered or protected by these measures.

I am happy not to press the amendment but I am seeking clarity in respect of the carriage of goods under the definition of pedal bicycle in particular or in terms of mechanically powered vehicles, although that is a much lesser speed. The issue in that regard is a maximum design speed of 6 km/h. Most electric cargo bikes have a maximum speed of 25 km/h. I am open to it not being put in that space but I am seeking clarity from the Minister in respect of where it sits.