Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 May 2016
1118. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will introduce legislation to control the use of rickshaws in urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10433/16]
View answerRickshaws are covered by road traffic law. Pedal-powered rickshaws come within the definition of 'pedal cycles' and powered rickshaws are classified as 'mechanically propelled vehicles'. They, like all other road traffic, are obliged to obey road traffic law. The measures which were introduced last year to allow An Garda Síochána to issue fixed charge notices to cyclists also apply to pedal powered rickshaws and provide an important tool for An Garda Síochána in enforcing the law.
At present there is no specific legislation to regulate the carriage of passengers by rickshaws. Rickshaws by their nature operate at a local level. Local authorities regulate many activities at local level through bye-laws made under local government regulation.
I understand that, in response to some concerns - primarily of a safety nature - both Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority have obtained legal advices in relation to their respective powers to regulate rickshaws. Following consideration of those advices my Department will be consulting the Attorney General on the best way to proceed to provide for the appropriate regulation of rickshaws.
