Rory Hearne (Dublin North-West, Social Democrats)
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278. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has recently engaged with the Road Safety Authority in respect of any new large-scale public information campaign that could be carried out to ensure proper use of e-scooters and to increase the public’s knowledge of existing rules around proper use of e-scooters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34293/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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I wish to advise that, under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the promotion of public awareness of road safety and of measures, including the advancement of education, relating to the promotion of the safe use of roads.

I have therefore referred the question to the RSA for direct, detailed reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.

The Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 established a new vehicle class, “powered personal transporters” or PPTs, which encompasses light electric vehicles like e- scooters. Regulations on the use of e-scooters came into effect from 20 May 2024, following the finalisation and commencement of the Road Traffic Act 2024 and the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023. Only e-scooters complying with the regulations are legal on Irish roads and this includes a requirement to be 16years or older to operate an e-scooter and a speed limit of 20km/h must be obeyed. In addition, the use of e-scooters on footpaths, pedestrianised areas or on motorways is prohibited. Requirements for minimum technical standards apply for lighting, brakes, audible warning devices, minimum wheel diameter, amongst other specifications.

In 2024, the RSA developed and aired a new E-scooter TV-led campaign that raised awareness of the new rules for e-scooter use. The RSA also developed social assets to raise awareness of the new rules for E-bike use and these were promoted across social media channels. This year, the RSA aired an E-scooter TV-led campaign for the month of April. Additional Information on this campaign is available on the RSA website.

The RSA has also developed educational resources from preschool level up to third level and these resources are delivered in schools and communities throughout the country. Each of these resources highlight the importance of personal responsibility when on our roads and the benefits of wearing a helmet to protect your head while cycling or using an e-scooter. The value of wearing a high visibility garment or accessory to ensuring the road user can be seen is also highlighted.