Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 June 2016
506. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if and when he will introduce regulations or legislation regarding the use of rickshaws, trikes and other novelty type vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17918/16]
View answerAll vehicles are obliged to obey road traffic law. Pedal-powered rickshaws come within the definition of 'pedal cycles' and powered rickshaws are classified as 'mechanically propelled vehicles'. 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. 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.
In the case of trikes or other novelty vehicles that come within the definition of mechanically propelled vehicle, it is a matter for the National Transport Authority to determine the appropriateness of licensing such vehicles as small public service vehicles. I have therefore referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
