Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,
Please find below two important communications for the safety and well-being of our entire school community.
1. Official Notice from Blanchardstown Garda Station
We have been contacted by Superintendent Emer Curran of Blanchardstown Garda Station with the following important information regarding the legal and safe use of electric scooters (e-scooters).
Under the Road Traffic (Electric Scooters) Regulations 2024, it is illegal for any person under 16 years of age to ride an e-scooter in any public place, including footpaths, cycle lanes, parks, and on the journey to and from school. The Gardaí advise that e-scooters pose a significant risk of injury to younger users and others.
Key Legal Requirements:
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Users must be 16 or older.
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A speed limit of 20 km/h applies.
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Use is prohibited on footpaths—they may only be used in cycle lanes, bus lanes, or on roads.
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The device must have lights, a bell, reflectors, and brakes.
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Passengers, mobile phone use, and seats on e-scooters are not permitted.
An Garda Síochána has informed us that they are actively enforcing this legislation in our area. Where a person under 16 is found using an e-scooter in public, Gardaí have the authority to seize the device. While their focus remains on education, enforcement will be used where necessary.
We urge all parents and guardians to discuss these laws with your children to ensure their safety and compliance.
Full letter attached.
2. A Vital Reminder on School Car Park Safety
The safety of every child in our care is our absolute and non-negotiable priority. This principle must guide all our actions, especially during the busy drop-off and collection times.
We must, once again, address the use of the church car park. We remind all parents and guardians that vigilance and safety for children must always come before personal convenience.
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Morning Closure: The car park is closed to all vehicular traffic from 8:50 AM to 9:10 AM. This is not to inconvenience you, but to create a safe, pedestrian-only zone for our hundreds of pupils entering the school grounds. This short window is critical for preventing accidents.
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Parking & Courtesy: Please do not park illegally, block driveways, or use the staff parking spaces. We thank the vast majority of families who follow the rules diligently—you are helping to keep everyone safe.
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A Stern Warning: For those who choose to ignore these clear safety measures, we must be clear: persistent or dangerous breaches will have consequences. This may include a formal ban from using the car park or further escalation with the assistance of the local community guards. The safety of our students cannot be compromised.
We need every member of our school community to partner with us in this. Let’s work together to ensure a safe environment for all our children.
Thank you for your attention, cooperation, and shared commitment to safety.
Sincerely,
Emer Curran
Community Garda, Blanchardstown Garda Station
Mrs. Molloy
Principal,
