Why is this happening now?
The government says the move comes in response to a rise in serious injuries and fatalities linked to e-scooter use. The regulations are the first in a wider package of road safety measures for e-scooters, approved by the government back in July, with more changes due to roll out over the coming weeks and months
What else is changing?
A number of further measures are in the pipeline. From 2 October, the cost of getting a detained e-scooter back will double, rising to €80 for detention and the first day of storage, with an extra €30 charged for each additional day.
The minimum age for e-scooter use is also set to rise from 16 to 18. This change needs sign-off from the EU Commission first, a process that can take up to 12 weeks, so it's expected to land before the end of the year.
Fines are rising too. Fixed Charge Notices for e-scooter offences will increase to €100, and this will include a new offence for not wearing a helmet or hi-vis clothing once the fine increase takes effect.
What's still under review?
The government is also considering whether e-scooters should require registration, insurance or a driving licence, though no decision has been made yet. A Department of Health report on the public health impact of e-scooters is expected shortly and will feed into further Cabinet decisions.
What have ministers said?
Minister O'Brien said road safety remains a priority for the government and added that “the growing use of e-scooters has brought new transport opportunities, but it has also been accompanied by a concerning rise in collisions, serious injuries and tragic fatalities involving riders, pedestrians and other road users.
“The regulations signed today, along with others that will take effect in the coming weeks, will help create a safer environment for all road users.”
Minister Canney said, “I am pleased that we have moved quickly and effectively to introduce these regulations, which provide a proportionate regulatory framework for use of e-scooters.
“They will strengthen safety standards and support effective enforcement, while ensuring that the benefits of e-scooters can be realised without compromising public safety.”
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