Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any steps she is taking to support the police in (i) identifying; (ii) seizing; and (iii) prosecuting the use of non-compliant e-bikes on public roads.
Minister for Infrastructure: The Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (Construction and Use) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 permit the use of compliant e-bikes, known as Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs), on public roads. These provide motor assistance only when pedalled, comply with motor and safety requirements, and do not provide assistance above 15.5 mph.
E-bikes that do not meet these requirements are classed as motorcycles under the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1999 and are therefore subject to registration, insurance, licensing and construction requirements.
Enforcement, including prosecution of those using non-compliant e-bikes on the road and in public spaces is an operational mater for the PSNI.
You will be aware that I recently supported your proposed amendment to the Justice Bill, to strengthen PSNI seizure powers by removing the requirement to issue a warning before seizing a vehicle, such as e-bikes, being used anti-socially.
My officials continue to engage with key strategic road safety stakeholders, including the PSNI and Department of Justice through the Road Safety Strategic Forum, to address road safety concerns, including those surrounding the use of non-compliant e-bikes on public roads.
In response to ongoing concerns regarding illegal vehicle use and the impact on road safety, I have instructed my officials to undertake a departmental call for evidence to gather the views, concerns, and evidence from interested stakeholders to inform the future policy direction on e-scooter policy here.
Road safety remains a priority for me, and I am committed to working with key partners to tackle such concerns and improve safety on our roads for all.
ENDS
