New regulations requiring e-scooter users to wear helmets and high-visibility clothing have come into effect from today.
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said yesterday that a ban on the use of e-scooters by under 18s could now be introduced by the end of this month or early next month, after he received permission from Europe to proceed with the plans.
Minister O’Brien said he is now aiming to increase the minimum age for e-scooter use from 16 to 18 by late September or early October.
Over the summer, the Government moved to change the regulations around e-scooters after medics at CHI Temple Street called for an outright ban on their use after six children ended up on life support in one fortnight due to injuries they sustained from e-scooters, using half of the hospital’s ICU capacity.
A ban for under 18s was announced, but the State was advised it needed to wait until later this year due to European rules.
But yesterday, Minister O’Brien was told Europe has waived the waiting period.
Those in breach of the regulations that came into force today face a fixed-charge notice of €100.
Detention and storage fees for seized e-scooters will be also be doubled from early October.
The Department said its still considering requirements for registration, insurance and driving licences for e-scooters
The Government has also not ruled out a full ban on their use and said a Department of Health report on their public health implications due shortly, will inform their next steps.