Scooters have quickly become one of the most convenient ways to get around the city. They’re cheap, fast, and help you skip traffic jams. But why are they being banned from public transportation? We investigate the danger behind electric scooters.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) stated that the ban was introduced for safety reasons, aiming to reduce the risk of fires on public transport like buses, trams, and trains.
The ban came into force on October 7. It applies specifically to foldable or portable e-scooters, but does not extend to e-bikes or mobility scooters.
“The guidance is prompted by safety concerns in relation to many lithium-ion batteries which are commonplace in such devices,” they said.”
“These batteries are known to develop internal faults, leading to overheating and combustion. This has resulted in recent fires and thick black smoke on board public transport in Madrid and Barcelona.”
Footage of an incident where scooters caught fire was recorded in a house in the UK while they were plugged into a socket to charge.
Former Transport Minister Eamon Ryan was questioned about these possible dangers in an interview with The Irish Times soon after e-scooter regulations were introduced. In his response, he said:
“They are carried in the luggage bay of the bus (sometimes more than one) close to the driver. Everything I read about these fires is that the fumes that are given off when this happens are very toxic and would overpower the driver easily.”
The ban on scooters caused widespread controversy online. While some people support the government’s decision, others believe the risks may indeed be exaggerated—or at least, argue that the ban should apply only to specific models that pose a danger, rather than banning all scooters at once. Online posters said:
“If some brands present a problem they should ban those from being sold and confiscate them if found being used. This measure is clearly coming from people who don’t use public transport.”
“This is an absolute over-reaction. A blanket ban that does not discriminate between types, brands, quality control, or production standards. It seems like the laziest option of “Ban them all”.
A Cork city councillor has described the decision to ban e-scooters from public transport as “wrongheaded”.
Green Party Councillor Oliver Moran acknowledged that the decision was driven by safety concerns, but he still believed it was the wrong move. While recognizing the risks associated with e-scooters, he expressed disappointment over the impact the ban could have on regular users.
“E-scooters have been transformative in how young people get around and have encouraged the use of multiple types of public transport,”
He also referred to scooters as “a very important bridge between these different types of public transport” noting that they offer an efficient way for people to reach train stations or bus stops.
In Howth, a small coastal town Co.Dublin, locals shared their thoughts on the recent ban.
The NTA review stated that the ban is “subject to periodic review”, but it’s unclear when the decision will be reconsidered.
Nazar Tarnavskyi 
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