Call for stronger enforcement on e-scooters

A Fine Gael TD has called for urgent action to tackle the growing misuse of scramblers and e-scooters by under-16s.

Deputy David Maxwell has warned that parents must stop purchasing e-scooters for children and has called for greater powers for An Garda Síochána to seize e-scooters where they are being used dangerously or irresponsibly.

“We are sleepwalking towards further serious injuries and potentially deaths unless decisive action is taken,” Deputy Maxwell said.

“That means better enforcement, stronger legislation, and tougher penalties for those who misuse e-scooters.”

“The powers of An Garda Síochána must be extended to allow the seizure of e-scooters where there is a reasonable belief that they are being used to harass, intimidate, or cause significant nuisance or danger to other road users or members of the public.”

Deputy Maxwell said that while e-scooters can be a practical and environmentally friendly transport option, particularly in towns experiencing congestion, the reality on the ground in Cavan, Monaghan and right across the country is deeply concerning.

“Our roads and footpaths are becoming increasingly unsafe. The Road Safety Authority has reported that almost one in four regular e-scooter users have already been involved in a collision, while one in three have experienced a near miss. Those figures should be ringing alarm bells for everyone.”

He added: “Parents need to stop buying these devices for minors. We also need to examine tighter controls on their sale and consider how a registration system could work so the rules cannot be easily avoided.”

Deputy Maxwell highlighted stark health data showing the consequences of inaction.

“E-scooter-related brain injuries now account for more than 25% of paediatric neurosurgical admissions at CHI Temple Street over the past year. These are life-altering injuries with long-term consequences for children and their families.”

“The risks are not limited to young riders. Pedestrians, particularly older people, are being put in real danger on our streets and footpaths. Mandatory helmet use must be introduced, and enforcement must be strengthened.”

“Communities across Cavan–Monaghan are raising these concerns with me repeatedly. The data is clear, and the dangers are visible to all of us. Urgent steps are needed before more lives are changed forever.”

“We must act now and give Gardaí the powers they need to protect public safety,” Deputy Maxwell concluded.