DUBLIN — Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said the Government's impending ban on e-scooters for under-18s will fail without additional resources for police enforcement, as the measure takes effect next month following retailers' withdrawal of non-compliant models.
The new regulations extend the existing under-16 prohibition to all minors and introduce mandatory helmets and high-visibility vests for all riders. Penalties will apply to parents who purchase e-scooters for children, with legislation later in 2026 creating a national register and requiring licensing. Green Party leader Roderic O'Gorman criticized the requirements as collective punishment that puts children's health at risk.
Labour's Ciarán Ahern warned police remain hamstrung under current rules, while the Dublin Commuter Coalition said helmet mandates won't affect those already riding illegally. Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly on Monday to discuss the proposals.