Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
760. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the guidelines for driving instructors with regard to returning to work; when they will be able to return to work; the precautions they will need to take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7345/20]
View answerDriving lessons are provided by self-employed private individuals or companies, and they have a responsibility to ensure that they can comply with the necessary public health requirements before they can reopen their businesses. It is not within the remit of my Department to issue advice to driving instructors on public health issues.
However, I expect them to encounter difficulties similar to those which will face the RSA in relation to the resumption of the driving test, in terms of complying with the National Return to Work Safely Protocol.
For the Deputy's information, on a very preliminary appraisal of the Protocol, car driving tests may have to be the last of the statutory functions, for which the RSA is responsible, to recommence in or after Phase 5 of the Government's roadmap.
