scooter ban 'means nothing if not enforced'
Irish political leaders are debating the effectiveness of a new government ban on e-scooters for minors, arguing that enforcement is currently inadequate. Opposition parties emphasize that without increased resources for the gardaí, the new regulations will fail to improve public safety.
Why it matters
The debate reflects broader challenges in urban policy and the regulation of new personal transportation technologies.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has said that the Government's new ban on e-scooters for those under 18 will not be effective unless gardaí are given more resources to enforce them.
E-scooters will be banned for anyone aged under 18, under proposals agreed by the Government. It was also agreed that hi-vis jackets and helmets will also be mandatory for all e-scooter use.
Speaking outside Leinster House she said: "What's required is enforcement, the Government haven't said anything or certainly haven't made the commitments that we need in respect of garda resources and garda training.
"A ban is all well and good but it means nothing if it's not enforced, and all of the evidence across our communities is that the law and regulations are not enforced.
"So what's needed to get on top of this is proper resourced, equipment, and training for the gardaí.
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