334. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Transport whether consideration is being given to introducing statutory protections or greater legal certainty for Garda members who, acting in good faith and in accordance with authorised pursuit policies, pursue and apprehend suspects using e-scooters, e-bikes or similar vehicles. [56944/26]

335. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Transport the measures being taken to protect vulnerable road users, including older persons, children and people with disabilities, from the misuse of e-scooters and other powered personal transporters on footpaths and in pedestrian areas; and whether further legislative changes are under consideration. [56945/26]

339. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Transport to specify the new powers and protections that have been mooted for Gardaí in policing dangerous or illegal e-scooter usage; and the means by which they will be granted. [57292/26]

493. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport if e-scooters will be allowed in cycle lanes; if they are reclassified as mechanically propelled vehicles; to outline the licence requirements for drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56961/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 334, 335, 339 and 493 together.

As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports I wish to emphasize my concern about the misuse of e-scooters in public areas. Government and stakeholders across the sector are working hard to reverse the current increase in fatalities and injuries and restore Ireland’s long-term progress in the area of road safety.

My Department is currently in consultation with stakeholders in the context of preparing regulations, the details of which will be released shortly. It is important that these regulations are thorough, have the desired effect, and that the correct vehicles, areas and territories are targeted.

Currently, Gardaí can stop e-scooter users and fine them for specific fixed charge offences, including using an e-scooter in a pedestrianised street or area or on a footpath. The fine for these offences is €50.

Road traffic legislation is enforced as part of the day-to-day duties of An Garda Síochána. Under section 26 of the An Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the enforcement of road traffic legislation.

The Minister for Justice, together with the Garda Commissioner, is considering further changes that may be requested of the Department of Transport to ensure that Road Traffic legislation provides the appropriate level of legal protection for Gardaí in the course of their duties. I will support, and legislate for, any proposals brought to me for this purpose.