Vol. 488 No. 2
159 Ms Clune asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the monopoly which exists under the Mechanically Propelled Vehicles (International Circulation) Order, 1992 which designates one issuing authority for international driving permits; if his attention has further been drawn to the view that this may be in breach of competition law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5846/98]
165 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the monopoly situation which exists under the Mechanically Propelled Vehicles (International Circulation) Order, 1992, which designates one issuing authority for international driving permits; if his attention has further been drawn to the view that this may be in breach of competition law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5952/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 159 and 165 together.
The present position, in which only one organisation stands designated as an issuing authority for international driving permits has operated since 1992 and arose from the virtual cessation of licence applications to a second formerly designated organisation. My Department has recently received a request from a different organisation to be designated as an issuing authority for international driving permits. This request will be determined shortly.
I understand that the Minister for the Environment and Local Government, in designating an issuing authority for international driving permits, is not an undertaking within the meaning of the Competition Acts, 1991 and 1996. The fee of £4 for an international driving permit is fixed by the relevant statutory instrument and may not be varied by designated licensing authorities.
