E-Scooters are not toys and should be regulated, says Moynihan

Fianna Fáil Transport Spokesperson Shane Moynihan, has said that introducing registration and insurance requirements for e-scooters would be a fair and proportionate step to improve road safety and accountability.

The Dublin Mid-West TD said “e-scooters are vehicles, often travelling at comparable speeds to cars and motorbikes. If I drive a car or ride a motorbike, I am required to register it and hold insurance. It is only fair that the same basic standards apply to e-scooters.”

There has been a significant rise in fatal and serious injuries arising from e-scooter accidents since 2023. New Garda figures show that by 30 November 2025, the number of e-scooter accidents had increased by 90% in contrast to the same period in 2023.

This trend is further underlined by a sharp increase in non-serious injury incidents, which have doubled last year, with 201 cases recorded.

“Currently there is little consequence when e-scooters are used irresponsibly, despite the very real risks posed to riders, pedestrians and other road users,” the Dublin TD said.

Deputy Moynihan stressed that any vehicle capable of travelling at speed on roads or footpaths must carry clear responsibilities.

“E-scooters have an important role to play in supporting cleaner and more sustainable transport. This is not about placing an extra burden on users, it is about ensuring safety and accountability for the public.

“If you drive a car or ride a motorbike, insurance and registration are mandatory. The same must apply to e-scooters. This is not about placing an extra burden on users, it is about ensuring safety and accountability,” he said.

He added that these are common sense measures which would bring Ireland into line with many EU neighbours. Countries such as France, Italy and Germany have already moved to tighten e scooter regulations, introducing requirements around insurance, licensing and stronger safety standards for both riders and vehicles.

“E-scooters are not toys. They are vehicles, and vehicles come with responsibilities. Applying the same principles that already exist for cars and motorbikes is both reasonable and necessary if we are serious about safety and fairness on our roads.”