NT NEWS:
An independent MP has warned the government’s plan to crush e-bikes and impose age limits will fail without proper licensing systems to teach young riders responsibility.
Instead of age restrictions and bike crushing, Pittwater’s MP is calling for mandatory licensing and registration to address the e-bike scourge plaguing Sydney.
Independent MP Jacqui Scruby has written to the transport minister requesting that the review into age restrictions for e-Bikes include consideration of licensing and registration as part of its terms of reference.
Ms Scruby says non-compliance with existing e-bike rules is rife and Labour’s proposed new rules will again be ignored.
“It’s ludicrous to believe you can seize and crush your way out of the e-bike problem, or that age restrictions alone will work.
“Licensing and registration bring accountability and assist enforcement of the law, also reducing the risks associated with police pursuing people who don’t pull over,” she said.
As the NSW Government moves toward a 12-year-old age minimum and harsher penalties, Ms Scruby believes these rules will be ignored without a system akin to boating licences, where young people are taught responsibility and road rules before operating a vehicle.
“In Pittwater, we have 12-year-olds driving boats with respect for the rules and risks. We have enforcement as well, but that’s the last resort; education and responsibility come first.
“Irrespective of age limits – learning the road rules, and having a licence will lead to better safety outcomes..
“Used responsibly, e-bikes are a fantastic form of active transport and a convenient, healthy option to get about for many people in Pittwater.
“If this review is serious about improving safety, it must consider the tools we have to teach riders the rules, the risks and the laws, and assess the benefits of a licensing and registration program.
“Excluding these options undermines the review’s potential.”
Ms Scruby has also called on the Minister to confirm the Office of Youth will come to Pittwater to hear from families and young people directly.
Anna Shreeves