Some drivers of e-bikes and e-scooters in Tralee feel they are a law unto themselves.
That’s the view of Fine Gael councillor Angie Baily, who raised the issue at the recent Tralee Municipal District meeting.
The Mayor of Tralee, Cllr Terry O’Brien, joked there should be a sniper positioned up high, to take out the drivers of these vehicles who are dressed in all-black and driving recklessly.
Cllr Baily asked the council to consider introducing traffic calming measures in all built-up areas, to tackle the problem of cars and e-bikes speeding.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Baily said she understands it’s largely a garda issue to enforce speed limits, but she requested signposts at least in pedestrianised areas to discourage these vehicles travelling at speed.
The Fine Gael councillor said they can be quite daunting when they come at you, as they’re often dressed in all-black, travelling at speed.
Mayor of Tralee, Cllr Terry O’Brien, said the speed limit for e-scooters is 20km/h, but that’s on roads, not pedestrian areas.
He said he’s seen it himself, that some are reckless.
He joked that for the drivers who dress in all black, there should be a sniper around the top of Penneys to “take them out”, as they are totally reckless.
In response to Cllr Baily’s motion, Kerry County Council said specific locations requested for traffic calming measures will be considered for funding under appropriate grants, but enforcement of speed limits is a matter for gardaí.
The council said over €10 million has been invested in high-quality, pedestrian-priority public realm in the town centre, and construction on the next phase of these works will commence in the coming months, shaping the town into a safer, more connected urban centre for residents and visitors.
