Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
282. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on regulations for the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023; what the regulations include; when they will be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48721/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that the Deputy's query is in relation to regulations for the use of e-scooters on public roads.
The Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, which has been signed into law, will amend the Road Traffic Act 1961 by introducing a new vehicle class, powered personal transporters (PPTs), which will not be subject to tax, registration, licensing and motor insurance requirements.
E-scooters will be classified as PPTs and will be legal for use on public roads when regulations are introduced. The regulations will cover the use of and specifications for e-scooters. Guidelines and education and training programmes will also be developed to promote and encourage their safe use.
Among other criteria, a maximum speed limit of 20km/h will apply, along with a maximum power output of 400 Watts and a maximum weight - including batteries - of 25kg. Other technical requirements, including for lighting and construction, will also be introduced.
An age limit of 16 will apply and e-scooters with seats will not be permitted. E-scooters will not be permitted to carry more than one person, nor to be used for the carriage of goods.
Although the use of helmets and other personal protective equipment, including hi-vis, on e-scooters will not be required by law, it is strongly recommended by the Road Safety Authority.
In line with EU law, the draft e-scooter technical regulations were notified to the European Commission Technical Regulation Information System (TRIS) for review. This process is now complete. The Commission made some comments on the draft regulations during TRIS and these are currently being reviewed. However, I expect the review to be completed in the coming weeks.
