Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 September 2020
25. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Transport the status of the steps taken to legislate for e-scooters in accordance with the Programme for Government; his plans to recognise the role e-scooters play as part of Ireland’s sustainable transport mix year; if a second stakeholder consultation will be brought forward by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24265/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAny changes to the legal status of e-scooters require primary legislation which, as the Deputy will appreciate, may take some time. It is not simply a case of declaring them no longer illegal and permitting their use on public roads and in public places.
I intend to legislate for e-scooters in accordance with the Programme for Government. This will involve identifying and developing appropriate amendments to primary legislation across a range of complex areas. The work must be carried out in such a way that it does not undermine the overall framework of Road Traffic Law or Road Safety in general. The Government's current legislative priorities are the necessary measures to manage the Covid 19 crisis and to address its social and economic consequences.
My officials are currently looking at how progress towards the commitment can be made in light of the foregoing. The question of what further consultations should take place, with whom and how, will be considered, noting that experience overseas has shown that a change of regime may have consequences for road safety, the management of roads and footpaths, the movement of traffic, public transport and goods, public health and the environment.
