340. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport the details of the proposed legislation intended to grant greater legal protections to members of An Garda Síochána when pursuing e-scooters and e-bikes; the expected timeline for the enactment of these provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57733/26]

626. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Transport if consideration is being given to introducing specific regulations or public awareness measures in relation to high-powered e-bike conversion kits that exceed the legal specifications for electrically assisted pedal cycles, including engagement with An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority regarding enforcement and public education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59028/26]

645. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Transport whether he is reviewing the legislative framework governing Garda pursuits involving persons using e-scooters, e-bikes and other powered personal transporters, particularly where such vehicles are being used in the commission of criminal offences or to evade Gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59439/26]

646. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Transport whether An Garda Síochána has requested additional powers to safely intercept and apprehend offenders using e-scooters, e-bikes and similar powered personal transporters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59440/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 340, 626, 645 and 646 together.

As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to emphasize my concern about the misuse of electric micromobility vehicles in public areas. Road safety is a foremost priority for me and this Government. Everyone is entitled to be safe on our roads.

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 or e-bike users and fine them for specific fixed charge offences, including using them 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.