Duncan Smith
Ceist:45. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport to outline all current regulations around rickshaws and tuk-tuks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23164/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 22 May 2024
Ceisteanna (45)
Freagraí scríofa
As the Deputy may be aware, in late 2018, the then Government gave approval for the publication of a General Scheme of a Bill to amend the Taxi Regulation Act 2013 so as to provide for the regulation of rickshaws.
Work was undertaken to advance the drafting of this Bill and it was included in the legislative priority list for 2019. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a change in priorities. Work has not re-commenced on the Bill at this time due to other legislative priorities.
Rickshaws can be powered in a number of different ways - pedal powered, pedal-assisted and motorised. If they are fitted with a small engine or electric motor, they are considered to be a mechanically propelled vehicle and, as such, are subject to all the regulatory controls that apply to other vehicles in terms of roadworthiness, registration and tax. They must comply with the Road Traffic Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicle Regulations 1963, Road Traffic Lighting of Vehicle Regulations 1963 and the Road Traffic Construction and Use of Vehicle Regulations 2003, in addition to holding the appropriate licence and insurance. Non-motorised rickshaws are subject to road traffic laws such as the Road Traffic Acts 1961-2018 and the Road Traffic Acts and Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997-2019.