Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 January 2021
88. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport if the family of essential workers will be considered for driver tests currently, given that they are necessary to transport essential workers to and from work. [2535/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder Covid 19 Level 5 Government restrictions effective from 31 December 2020, candidates can attend their scheduled driving test appointment provided they are an essential worker involved in the provision of essential services or essential retail outlets. This will not be extended to the family of essential workers.
While I regret the inconvenience caused, I think you will agree with me that this is the correct decision for public health reasons. In a climate where only limited services are being provided in order to reduce the spread of Covid-19, coupled with the inherent risks in a service which inevitably involves testers and test candidates in close proximity in a confined space, I believe it is in everyone's interest that driving tests are suspended for all but essential workers.
Public health must come first and my Department continue to be guided by NPHET and other national experts in relation to the provision of services.
