John Lahart
Question:168. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Transport the timeline for his introduction of e-scooter related legislation. [40833/20]
View answerThursday, 3 December 2020
Questions (168)
Written answers
I intend to legislate for e-scooters in accordance with the Programme for Government in early 2021. This involves 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. My officials are currently working on drafting the necessary changes to primary legislation. Subject to satisfactory resolution of the necessary issues, I intend to bring forward amendments to the relevant enabling primary legislation when the Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill is before the Oireachtas in the next few months.
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. These are all factors which must be taken into consideration when legislating.
Until new legislation is in place, the use of electric scooters will remain illegal on public roads and in public places. However, they may be used on private land with the permission of the landowner.