A Listowel councillor says it’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt by e-scooters being driven on footpaths.
Sinn Féin councillor Tom Barry made the statement after he tabled a motion at the recent Listowel Municipal District meeting.
He urged Kerry County Council to collaborate with the Gardaí to deal with unacceptable behaviour of some e-scooter and e-bike users.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Tom Barry said reckless use of the vehicles is becoming a major issue not just in Listowel, but nationwide, and action is needed.
He told the chamber that e-scooters and e-bikes are being used on footpaths, and a large number of drivers are way below the minimum age.
He added the messages needs to be gotten to parents that they also have a responsibility.
Regulations for the vehicle introduced in May 2024 include that users must be aged 16 or over, and e-scooters are not permitted on footpaths or pedestrianised areas.
Cllr Barry said it’s not just young people causing problems, and also outlined that areas of Listowel Town Park and sports clubs facilities have been destroyed by people driving across them.
He said something must be done and urged for a day of action in schools and clubs, adding road signs should be installed to remind people not to use the vehicles on footpaths.
The motion was seconded by Independent councillor Liam Speedy Nolan, who said the irresponsible use and speeds e-scooters are being driven has gone beyond a joke.
In response, Kerry County Council advised safe use of e-scooters and e-bikes will be promoted during Road Safety week in October in collaboration with the Gardaí.
It added that a local safety partnership is being established in the Listowel area and these matters may be appropriate for that group once it’s up and running.
