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Italy clamps down on the use of e-scooters.

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The Italian government have tightened road safety laws, announcing a crackdown on the use of electric scooters on city streets.

Under the new regulations riders will have to wear a helmet and have insurance and the scooters themselves will now require a registration plate. Furthermore it will be forbidden to ride two-wheelers outside of built up areas or to leave them parked haphazardly on pavements.

There were over 45,000 rental e-scooters in Italy in 2021, according to the Sharing Mobility Observatory. They have proved a hit, particularly in cities with heavy traffic or few cycle routes, but drivers complain they are dangerous, and they are regularly left blocking footpaths or disabled access routes in major cities.

From 2020 to 2021, according to the National Institute of Statistics (Istat), road accidents involving e-scooters rose from 564 to 2,101 and injuries from 518 to 1,980. Of these, 1,903 were drivers, 77 passengers and 127 pedestrians. In 2021, there were 10 victims, one of whom was a pedestrian.

ISTAT data also show that in Italy, in 2021, only 13% of electric scooter users previously travelled by car. Before the advent of scooters, most users travelled on foot, by bicycle or public transport.

Parisians voted in April this year to ban rental scooters in their city. At home, Minister Eamon Ryan signed the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 on the 27th June last. The Electric scooter regulations must, under EU law, be notified to the European Commission for review, to ensure that they comply with single market rules before they come into effect. This process takes a minimum of 12 weeks so it is likely that by Autumn Ireland will have new laws for e-scooters and other powered personal transporters.

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Fossa Community Sustainability Fair a success

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The Fossa Community Sustainability Fair, hosted by the Fossa Climate Action Group, was a huge success last Sunday afternoon, with over 20 exhibitors showcasing their initiatives and projects in Fossa Community Hall.

The annual event, which aims to promote sustainability and community engagement, attracted a diverse range of visitors who came to learn, share, and connect with local organisations and initiatives.

Exhibitors included Killarney National Park Education Staff, Beaufort Beekeepers Association, Young Environmental Award entrants, Flourish Organics and Wild Weeds.

The fair provided a platform for local groups and individuals to share their work, exchange ideas, and inspire others to take action on environmental issues.

Visitors had the opportunity to learn about sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and community-led projects, highlighting the wealth of talent and commitment to sustainability in the local community.

“We’re thrilled with the response and it gives comfort to know that there are so many groups in the area who are working to sustain the beautiful and healthy environment that surrounds us,” said Diarmaid Griffin of the Fossa Climate Action Group.

The Fossa Climate Action Group would like to thank all exhibitors, attendees, and supporters who contributed to the success of the event.

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Legion presented with Hurling Support Pack at Croke Park

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Killarney Legion was among a select group of just 70 clubs from across the 32 counties invited to Croke Park recently to receive a Hurling Refresher Pack.

The presentation was led by GAA President Jarlath Burns and Hurling Development Committee Chairperson Terry Reilly.

Eamonn and Sonny Maguire represented the Killarney club at the headquarters to accept the equipment.

The initiative is part of a strategic drive by the GAA to grow the game, particularly in developing and non-traditional hurling areas.

Each pack contains 15 hurleys, 15 helmets, and 60 sliotars, specifically designed to support nursery and underage coaching.

President Jarlath Burns said that promoting and preserving hurling is a top priority of his term.

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