I propose to take Questions Nos. 8 and 9 together.
Recently officials of my Department met a deputation from the Independent Hauliers Association. At that meeting the deputation raised, inter alia, the question of delays in granting carriers licences and certificates of competence. It was explained to the deputation that apart from the large volume of applications received, in most cases the applications were not properly completed; neither was all the necessary back-up documentation supplied.
I am satisfied that my Department are making every effort to finalise applications received as soon as possible. Since it appears that a difficulty exists in completing forms, I propose to have included in any future courses leading to the examination for certificates of competence, a practical exercise on completion of applications forms. Indeed because of the difficulty being experienced with the completion of forms, an official of my Department attended the recent intensive course held in Rathmines College of Commerce and dealt with issues relating to the completion of such forms.