Budget 2027: Securing sustainable, accessible and safe transport and extending opportunities7/10/2026
Total allocation of €5.551 billion for the Department of Transport for 2027, an increase of €840 million over 2026
This funding is the bedrock for a sustainable, accessible, and safe transport network across Ireland and the basis for the ongoing expansion and enhancement of services and transport infrastructure. It covers the range of Department of Transport responsibilities including public transport, roads, road safety, active travel, civil aviation, maritime services, and the Irish Coast Guard. The allocation for Service Obligation (PSO) public transport services is €1.042 billion, an 11% uplift in the core PSO allocation from 2026. This supports essential public transport services across bus, light rail and heavy rail networks, maintaining accessibility and connectivity nationwide and enabling ongoing expansion. Approximately 140 new and enhanced services are in the pipeline for 2027. Budget 2027 supports transport infrastructure with funding for MetroLink as it approaches the construction phase, following recent Government approval to proceed to market tender. Planned milestones for 2027 include the launch of the main tender procurement packs and the commencement of advance and enabling works. Funding will also provide for the progression of the DART+ and BusConnects programmes, including continued construction of Core Bus Corridors and commencement of the Clongriffin CBC. The safety of all road users remains a Government priority, which drives continued investment in infrastructure and services. The allocation for national, regional and local road networks and for road safety measures is €1.784 billion. This funding supports the delivery of major road projects, including the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge, which remains on schedule for completion next year following the opening of its first phase in March, and the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy, now 16 months into its 36-month construction programme. Further progress is also expected on the N21/69 Limerick to Foynes, including the completion of the Adare Bypass. The allocation will also fund improvement works across local and regional roads, advance key milestones on the Galway City Ring Road project, and support the protection and renewal of the wider road network. In addition, grants to local authorities will help deliver targeted road improvement programmes, contributing to a safer, stronger and more resilient network nationwide. Specific support for road safety measures includes an additional €2 million ring-fenced funding for the RSA to deliver road safety public awareness and promotional campaigns, bringing total expenditure to €20 million. There will be a focus on broadening and enhancing educational programmes to make our roads safer for all road users. Support for those who work on our roads is provided with the extension of the Road Transport Support Scheme for a further two months. This scheme assists haulage and passenger operators with the high price of diesel and recognises their crucial role in supply chains as we enter one of the busiest delivery periods of the year. Government remains committed to supporting active travel for its contribution to achieving climate objectives and reducing congestion, as well as its benefits for health and wellbeing. Funding of over €360m in 2027 for dedicated infrastructure for walking and cycling, together with greenway and ‘Safe Routes to Schools’ projects, support sustainable, active travel as part of our everyday lives. Strengthening the ongoing transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) further supports decarbonisation of transport, and has been one of the most effective measures for meeting the Government’s 2030 climate targets. Building on the momentum achieved in 2026, when EVs became the most popular choice among new car buyers, the 2027 allocation will provide a 20% increase to €143m in baseline funding for EV purchase and charging infrastructure schemes. The extension to 2028 of the €5,000 VRT relief for Battery EVs by the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance is a welcome measure that continues to make EV ownership more affordable. Funding will be ring-fenced for the design and delivery of a pilot grant scheme to support households without access to off-street parking to put in place safe and approved cross-pavement charging. This will help households without driveways access home charging and the associated cost savings, making EV ownership a realistic option for more people. The scheme will be supported by ongoing Department-led work to develop an appropriate regulatory framework and streamlined permitting process for the installation of such solutions. Funding of €6.5 million is provided for the new Vehicle Adaptation Scheme, supporting drivers and passengers who require adaptations to enter, exit, or operate a motor vehicle and enhancing their personal mobility options. Regional development is supported with an allocation of €39.6 million for the aviation sector, including over €19 million to support regional airports and the PSO air service between Donegal and Dublin. The transformation of the Irish Coast Guard continues, with a budget allocation of €137 million for the Coast Guard and wider maritime sector. This enables the continued provision of a world-class response to search and rescue, pollution, and marine casualties, and continued investment in the development and upgrade of Volunteer Unit facilities. “This €5.551 billion allocation demonstrates the Government’s commitment to delivering a transport system that is sustainable, accessible and safe. The record investment of more than €1 billion in public transport services will see progress on approximately 140 new and enhanced services in the pipeline, supporting communities in all parts of the country. “We are also continuing to support those who keep Ireland moving every day. The extension of the Road Transport Support Scheme recognises the challenges facing haulage and passenger transport operators and the critical role they play in supporting supply chains, businesses and the economy, along with the continuation of the cut to excise on petrol and diesel until May 2027, this is to protect household and businesses from price increases following the Middle East conflict. “We are progressing transformative infrastructure projects such as MetroLink, DART+, Luas Finglas and BusConnects, while continuing to invest in safer roads, active travel and a more sustainable transport network. Taken together, these measures will help deliver a modern, accessible and resilient transport system that supports economic growth, regional development and a better quality of life for people across Ireland. “Funding of almost €40 million for the aviation sector will ensure the continued provision of direct air access to Ireland’s regions and support ongoing regulatory and policy functions in civil aviation. Regional connectivity remains a key priority. Through a €39.6 million investment in aviation, including support for regional airports and the Donegal-Dublin air service, we are strengthening links between our regions and ensuring that communities and businesses remain connected to national and international opportunities.” Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien“This Budget delivers real improvements for communities across Ireland through continued investment in safer roads, stronger transport links and essential public services. The €1.784 billion allocation for roads and road safety will support key infrastructure projects, improve regional and local roads, and help make our roads safer for all users. I am particularly pleased to see €6.5 million allocated to the new Vehicle Adaptation Scheme, which will enhance mobility and independence for people who require vehicle adaptations. The Budget also provides €137 million for the Irish Coast Guard and wider maritime sector, ensuring the continued delivery of world-class search and rescue services and supporting the dedicated volunteers who serve communities around our coast.” Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney“This Budget delivers for rural Ireland through continued investment in public transport, rural connectivity and regional aviation. Funding for approximately 140 new and enhanced public transport services will improve access to work, education, healthcare and social opportunities for communities across the country. “Continued investment in the aviation sector, including support for our regional airports and the Donegal-Dublin air service, recognising the vital role they play in connecting people, supporting tourism and driving regional economic development. “Together, these investments will help ensure that no community is left behind as we build a more connected, accessible and sustainable transport network.” Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry ButtimerBudget 2027 also enables: Strong road networks, better road safety, and support for vehicles and drivers
Regulation of Maritime Transport
Allocation demonstrates commitment to implement high-impact climate actions, accelerate local climate action, prepare Ireland for the impacts of a changing climate, and enhance our environment
Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien has secured €1.28 billion in Budget 2027 to accelerate Ireland’s energy transition and journey to a sustainable future. Focus on energy affordability Energy affordability is a key priority for the Government, and for Budget 2027. The work of the cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) – chaired by Minister O’Brien – has informed key aspects of Budget 2027, including supports for those most directly impacted by the ongoing international energy crisis. In Budget 2027, the Government has delivered a package of measures to help households and businesses with the cost of energy, with a particular focus on those most vulnerable to volatility in the price of imported fossil fuels. Enhancements to the Fuel Allowance, increases to the Living Alone Allowance and the Child Support Payment, as well as changes to the Working Family Payment income threshold and a new Cost of Disability Payment will help to support households most at risk of energy poverty. The extension of the temporary excise cuts into 2027 and a cut in Carbon Tax on home heating oil and gas will help to ease pressures on households and businesses facing higher costs as a result of volatility in international energy markets. An extension to the Road Transporters Support Scheme also provides an additional support to help commercial transport operators offset high diesel costs. The taskforce continues to work at pace – to assess and respond to the implications of the conflict in the Middle East. It continues to assess EU proposals and measures, and wider international developments. The taskforce’s comprehensive Energy Affordability Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer-term measures to support energy affordability and will be submitted to Government later this month. This action plan will address a range of issues including: protecting households and tackling energy poverty; supporting businesses; enabling active participation; improving markets; and funding investment in our grid. Commenting on Budget 2027, the Minister for Climate, Energy and Environment Darragh O’Brien said: “Energy affordability is a priority for me, and for this Government. Last week I welcomed Energy Ministers and delegates from across the EU and beyond to Dublin Castle – to discuss the international energy crisis. It is clear that this crisis has taken a significant toll across all EU Member States. My government colleagues and I have met the challenges before us. We have already introduced a €1.4 billion package of support measures to help ease the cost pressures facing households and businesses across the country – at the fuel pump, by supporting those most at risk of energy poverty, and helping the key sectors that are vital to keeping our economy moving. “Today, as we present Budget 2027, the focus again is very much on energy – on sustainability, on security and, of course, on affordability. Continued and enhanced energy supports that will help people today and tomorrow, announced by my colleagues today, have been informed by the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce, which I chair. For the taskforce, there is a particular focus on those most vulnerable to volatility in the price of imported fossil fuels. And that will be a continued focus. “We also know that, in the medium to long term, the best way to protect households and businesses from rising energy costs is to make our homes and businesses more energy efficient, while accelerating our transition to home-grown renewable energy. That is why, just last week, I announced a suite of enhanced and new measures through the SEAI – measures designed to help more households and businesses reduce their energy costs, improve energy efficiency, and make the transition to cleaner, more affordable energy. This means that more and more households right across the country will benefit – whether through warmer, more energy-efficient windows and doors; attic and wall insulation; solar PV and home battery storage; or deep retrofits. More than one in every ten homes in Ireland have already benefited from SEAI-supported home energy upgrades. Budget 2027 allows us to accelerate that progress even further – reaching more households, delivering more improvements, and doing so faster. I also very much welcome the increase in the income tax disregard for micro-generation income received by households who sell electricity back to the grid by €200, increasing from €400 to €600. This will encourage even more home solar PV installations.” “Crucially, Budget 2027 also renews our ambitious commitment to climate action – at national and local level – and to environmental protection, not just across our country but also across our substantial maritime area.” Minister of State with responsibility for inland fisheries and marine protection Timmy Dooley said: “I am pleased that key priorities in the marine and inland fisheries, that will help us deliver on our climate, energy and environmental protection targets, have secured vital funding in Budget 2027. Our goal is to ensure that our rivers, seas and oceans are clean, healthy, productive and sustainably used; this Budget supports these objectives. In particular, an allocation of €10 million for the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority [MARA] will ensure that this vital body is resourced to deliver on its important remit as a regulator for the maritime area, enabling it to serve its broad group of stakeholders. MARA supports the delivery of projects of strategic importance around our coast – realising new opportunities for economic growth. Importantly, Budget 2027 will enable MARA to focus further on streamlining its processes and decision-making timelines.” Minister of State with responsibility for Circular Economy Alan Dillon said: “Budget 2027 provides the resources needed to accelerate Ireland's transition to a circular economy while safeguarding our environment and public health. Through significant investment in waste enforcement, remediation of legacy landfill sites, circular economy innovation and public engagement, we are creating the conditions for a more resource-efficient and resilient economy. “The financial envelope for the Circular Economy secured will be supplemented by strategic and targeted allocations from the Circular Economy Fund which is financed through environmental levies on plastic bags, landfill, and waste recovery, and plays a vital role in supporting our transition. This is about protecting our natural resources, supporting businesses, creating green jobs and ensuring communities across Ireland benefit from a cleaner and more sustainable future.” Insulating households here in Ireland from volatile, international energy prices In the run-up to Budget 2027 (and as part of the broader work of the NEAT), Minister O’Brien has already delivered a suite of enhanced SEAI energy upgrade grants – to help households and businesses reduce energy costs and move away from volatile, imported fossil fuels. Enhanced supports for households at risk of energy poverty, medically vulnerable customers, lower-income homeowners and renters will help ensure that those who need support most can access the benefits of lower energy bills. This package also substantially boosts support for solar installations for business, as well as other energy efficiency measures. Key measures (effective from today – 6 October) include: solar PV and battery are now offered as standard under fully-funded Warmer Homes Scheme; more generous grants for solar, attic and cavity insulation for certain Department of Social Protection recipients and homes in HAP, RAS, and RASP tenancies; more favourable eligibility criteria for solar PV and solar thermal; a fossil fuel boiler scrappage support scheme; a home battery energy storage grant; and enhanced supports for businesses that will save thousands in energy costs. Depending on the measure installed and the characteristics of the property, households could benefit from savings of up to €878 per year. These grants are on top of the existing supports for energy upgrades including insulation, window and door replacements and heat pumps which, when installed as part of whole home upgrade, can save homeowners up to €1,120 per year. Enhanced supports for businesses will save thousands in energy costs. Businesses availing of enhanced solar PV supports could reduce annual energy costs by up to €300,000 per annum, with significant energy savings also possible with enhanced solar thermal and heat pump grants. Specifically in Budget 2027, a very substantial allocation of over €950 million has been allocated to the Department’s ‘Energy Transformation’ programme, with a record capital allocation of over €650 million (including a €647 million allocation from Carbon Tax receipts) for the aforementioned SEAI home energy upgrade schemes. This is an €89 million increase on last year’s Carbon Tax allocation and means that more funding than ever will be available to make homes warmer, healthier, more comfortable, less expensive to heat and less reliant on fossil fuels. This funding is expected to be further supplemented with additional funding, such as an allocation from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), which will provide for an increase in the allocation for the Warmer Home Scheme in 2027 (and for the overall allocation for 2027). The implementation of the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme, which provides low-cost retrofit loans with interest rates available from 3%, also continues to be supported. Climate action and environmental leadership Budget 2027 also sees an allocation of over €170 million for ‘Climate Action and Leadership’ programme. This will facilitate the continuation of a range of key, high-impact activities, including accelerated local authority climate action, technical research and modelling to inform mitigation and adaptation policy measures, as well as international and national climate change obligations. €25 million of this funding will go to Ireland’s EU Just Transition Programmes – to support communities in the wider midlands region impacted by the transition to climate neutrality. Recognising the key role of local authorities in implementing climate commitments at a local level, over €22 million is being provided to the local authorities to support accelerated local climate action delivery. The Budget will provide additional supports to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The agency is responsible for protecting the environment and public health through licensing, enforcement, monitoring, research and environmental advocacy. Importantly, the EPA has implemented actions aimed at reducing licensing timelines and improving the predictability of decision timeframes, while maintaining environmental standards. Meanwhile, the biomethane sector is building momentum in Ireland, with seven anaerobic digestion plants recently finished or currently under construction. We will build on this initial investment by opening a €200 million capital grant scheme in the coming days. This will underpin the continued development of this sector, ensuring we realise the full potential and benefits that this energy source holds. Also, work to develop efficient district heating continues to progress. In addition to the operational scheme in Tallaght (developed by South Dublin County Council), nine projects have now been allocated a combined €5 million from the Climate Action Fund – for pre-construction funding. This is in addition to the over €50 million that has been allocated for district heating projects from the Climate Action Fund to date. A further €50-100 million has been allocated from the Infrastructure Climate and Nature Fund, the scheme for which will open in Q1 2027. Protecting our environment and moving to a Circular Economy Budget 2027 will support Ireland in transitioning to a Circular Economy, whilst protecting our natural resources and environment. The allocation of over €150 million for the Department’s ‘Circular Economy Development’ programme includes €47 million to tackle waste contamination sites. Over €10 million of this funding is for the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) – to ensure it is resourced to deliver on its remit as a regulator for the maritime area, and to enable it to serve its stakeholders more effectively. Over €39 million will go to Inland Fisheries Ireland – to enable it to effectively protect, manage and conserve Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources. €15 million will enable Geological Survey Ireland (GSI) to implement its Tellus and INFOMAR programmes. The Tellus survey is a national programme to gather geochemical and geophysical data across Ireland – in other words to examine the chemical and physical properties of our soil, rocks and water. INFOMAR is a programme that maps the physical, chemical and biological features of Ireland’s seabed. This is critical for the sustainable development of our valuable coastal and offshore waters. Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien and Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety Seán Canney today introduced new regulations to raise the age limit for e-scooter users from 16 to 18 years of age. This change will come into effect from 2nd October 2026.
Regulations to double the fees for detention and storage of seized e-scooters have also been signed. This means that fees will rise to €80 for detention and the first day of storage and €30 for each additional day of storage. This will also take effect from 2nd October. These regulations follow recent changes making helmets and high-visibility clothing mandatory for e-scooter users since 4th September 2026. Minister O’Brien said: “Increasing the minimum age for e-scooter use to 18 is a necessary and proportionate road safety measure. We have seen a concerning number of serious injuries and fatalities involving young e-scooter users, and our regulations need to address this. Together with the recent introduction of mandatory helmets and high-visibility clothing, these changes send a clear message that e-scooters must be used responsibly and safely.” Minister Canney said: “I am happy to have signed these regulations today. They are about protecting lives and preventing serious injuries. Raising the minimum age for e-scooter users to 18, alongside mandatory helmets and high-visibility clothing, will help to improve safety and encourage responsible behaviour on our roads.” Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer said: “Raising the minimum age for e-scooter use to 18, alongside the introduction of mandatory helmets and high-visibility clothing, is a sensible measure that will help protect road users and promote responsible use. Our focus is on ensuring that active and sustainable travel options can continue to grow in a way that is safe for everyone, whether in urban centres or rural communities.” Following legal advice from the Attorney General’s Office, the proposed age limit increase was notified to the European Commission through the EU TRIS (Technical Regulation Information System) process. This process usually involves a 12-week standstill. However, Ireland sought the application of an expedited ‘Urgency Procedure’, citing significant road safety concerns and the serious injuries associated with underage use of e-scooters. The Commission accepted Ireland’s case and agreed that the Urgency Procedure was justified. As a result, the standard 12-week TRIS standstill period no longer applied, enabling Ministers to introduce regulations at this stage. Government approved a series of road safety measures for e-scooters in July 2026. Further measures will be introduced in the coming weeks, as the necessary legislative, administrative and technical changes are confirmed:
Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien and Minister Timmy Dooley, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Marine, will represent Ireland and the Council of the EU this week at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High Level Week is a key milestone on the road to COP31, where Ireland will lead the EU delegation in discussions to uphold climate multilateralism and the achievement of the Paris Agreement goals. As part of its EU Presidency, Ireland will provide strong and coordinated leadership for the EU at COP31. As part of these efforts Minister O‘Brien will convene a meeting of EU Ministers in New York, to discuss EU strategy on the road to Antalya. Ensuring COP31 makes tangible progress on the implementation of the Paris Agreement and contributes to accelerating the clean energy transition are key priorities for this year. Minister O’Brien said: “ I welcome the opportunity to work with EU Ministers and global representatives at UNGA to help renew momentum on climate action - accelerating the transition to clean energy through renewables, supporting climate mitigation efforts, delivering on much needed adaptation, channelling climate finance to the most vulnerable and fostering international collaboration. “The current energy crisis we are experiencing clearly demonstrates the importance of the clean energy transition for all countries. This isn’t simply about emissions – though this is of course a clear priority – it’s about ensuring energy security, energy sovereignty and energy affordability. “At a time of geopolitical uncertainty and continuing pressure on the multilateral system, effective international climate cooperation is more important than ever. Ní neart go cur le Chéile’ - there is strength in unity.” Minister O’Brien will attend several bilateral meetings with other UN member states as well as business and civil society. Minister O’Brien will then travel to Washington for a series of engagements, including with members of the House of Representatives, and other stakeholders. Minister Dooley will represent Irish interests across a range of policy areas at UNGA, including ocean observation and sea level rise. Key areas of focus are pledging Irish support for the European Commission led Ocean Eye event, which is being hosted by President von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and giving Ireland’s National Statements on Sea Level Rise and on Pandemic Preparedness. The Minister will also represent Ireland at the United Nations’ Secretary General’s High-Level Summit on Climate Change and Just Transition and at the Sixth Summit of the International Crimea Platform, at which Ukrainian President Zelensky will also be present. Further events at which the Minister will be present are focused on the marine environment and the transition away from fossil fuels. Commenting on Ireland’s pledge to support the Ocean Eye initiative, Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment Timmy Dooley said: “Ireland recognises that sustained, coordinated and accessible ocean observations are fundamental to advancing scientific knowledge, to better understanding our oceans and to supporting many national, European and international maritime policy objectives. We look forward to being part of an alliance that will enhance global ocean knowledge, strengthen and integrate ocean observing capabilities and build partnerships across research institutions, industry, and international observing networks.”
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien has today received approval from Cabinet to move MetroLink to the detailed tender stage, where market bids will be sought and partners selected to build and operate MetroLink. This is a major milestone for MetroLink. Significant enabling works are to start on site from early next year, followed by heavy tunnelling and station construction. MetroLink will be the largest single project in Ireland since the construction of the Ardnacrusha hydro power plant in the 1920s, and will involve thousands of workers to deliver strategic benefits for generations to come. As an electric, driverless and mostly underground high-capacity railway, MetroLink will be the first of its kind on the island. MetroLink will not only serve hundreds of thousands of people along the route in north Dublin, it will integrate with heavy rail, DART, Luas and bus services, the M1 motorway, and Dublin Airport - thereby transforming connectivity across a wide region. Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “Today’s approval reflects the Government’s commitment to investing in new infrastructure. MetroLink will help make our capital city a better, more sustainable place in which to live, travel, socialise and work. I am delighted that the Government has moved MetroLink into the detailed procurement phase for multi-billion-euro construction and operation contracts, and we will continue to support it into construction.” Tánaiste Simon Harris said: “Today’s decision is an important milestone in the delivery of a major public transport project that will connect our capital city to national transport networks and strengthen our economy as well as our competitiveness as a country. "By providing a fast, frequent, and reliable public transport service, MetroLink will improve access to education and health facilities, to jobs, and to sports clubs, parks, and playgrounds. Projects like this are central to building the country our growing population now requires by helping to connect communities and unlock new housing." Minister O’Brien said: “I welcome today’s important step forward for MetroLink, a vital transport project that will help reduce traffic congestion, improve access to Dublin Airport and unlock much-needed new housing development at scale. “MetroLink will support the delivery of approximately 77,000 new homes along its route and, through its integration with other public transport services, up to 200,000 new homes across the Greater Dublin Area. “This is a game-changer for Dublin and the wider region as we work to deliver more homes for a growing population. MetroLink will not only transform connectivity and access but also strengthen our economic competitiveness, support sustainable growth and unlock the development potential of communities across the Greater Dublin Area. “MetroLink also supports decarbonisation by providing a reliable, low-carbon alternative to private car travel, helping to reduce road traffic, transport-related emissions and overall carbon footprints across the region.” Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney said: “This approval is a positive decision for our whole transport portfolio. Interchanges at Glasnevin and Tara Street, along with the Park and Ride at Estuary, will make MetroLink and its range of destinations easily accessible to passengers transferring from heavy rail services or cars. The decision is also a strong indication to the market that this Government is serious about transforming our plans into reality, which will have a positive impact on the rest of our ambitious portfolio of transport projects.” The key milestone today follows a joint review by the Department of Transport and National Transport Authority (NTA) of a Detailed Business Case (DBC) under Approval Gate 2 of the Infrastructure Guidelines. The estimated cost for MetroLink (including contingency and inflation, excluding VAT) outlined in the DBC ranges from €14.44 to €17.49 billion, with a central estimate of €15.75 billion. The assessed benefits from MetroLink have been shown to exceed the costs, including from faster journey times and reduced traffic congestion. Firm cost ranges for MetroLink will only be known after the market bids are received, next year. Key features of Metrolink include:
For more information on MetroLink visit www.metrolink.ie. Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien and Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety Seán Canney today introduced new regulations to make helmets and high-visibility clothing mandatory for e-scooter users. This is a key road safety measure in light of the increasing number of serious injuries and fatalities associated with e-scooter usage. This change will come into effect on Friday 4th September 2026.
Government approved a series of road safety measures for e-scooters in July 2026. Further measures will be introduced in the coming weeks, as the necessary legislative, administrative and technical changes are confirmed:
Minister O’Brien said: “Road safety is a priority for me, my Department and for this Government. We are committed to taking decisive action to make roads safer for all who use them. The growing use of e-scooters has brought new transport opportunities, but it has also been accompanied by a concerning rise in collisions, serious injuries and tragic fatalities involving riders, pedestrians and other road users. “The regulations signed today, along with others that will take effect in the coming weeks, will help create a safer environment for all road users.” Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety, Seán Canney, said: “I am pleased to have signed these regulations today. Like many of us, I am very concerned about the potential for tragedy when e-scooters are not used safely. I am pleased that we have moved quickly and effectively to introduce these regulations, which provide a proportionate regulatory framework for use of e-scooters. “They will strengthen safety standards and support effective enforcement, while ensuring that the benefits of e-scooters can be realised without compromising public safety.” Proposals regarding registration, insurance and driving licence requirements for e-scooters remain under consideration. The Department of Health will shortly bring forward their report on the public health implications of e-scooters and this will be an important factor in Government decisions on next steps. Proposals will be brought before Cabinet in due course. |
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September 2026
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