Ireland Tightens E‑Scooter Rules Amid Surge in Child Injuries

The Irish government announced a package of new e‑scooter regulations after a 50% rise in traumatic brain injuries among children and young people. The measures raise the minimum age for riding from 16 to 18, require helmets, high‑visibility jackets and a licence for all users, and prohibit the sale of scooters that exceed 20 km/h. E‑scooters will be re‑classified as mechanically propelled vehicles and could be treated like mopeds by the end of 2026, while a full ban remains on the table.

Health officials highlighted that one to two children a day are now presenting to emergency departments with e‑scooter‑related injuries. In response, retailers such as Amazon and AliExpress have withdrawn non‑compliant models from their Irish sites, and lawmakers have urged other sellers to do the same.

Opposition politicians argue that an outright ban on under‑18 riders is not the right solution, stressing the need for better enforcement of speed limits and sales restrictions. The government also hinted at broader road‑safety reforms, including possible registration plates, helmets and high‑visibility clothing for cyclists, though no final decision has been made.