Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Feb 1990

Vol. 396 No. 1

Written Answers. - Driving Licences.

Alan Shatter

Question:

114 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for the Environment the reason it is taking up to seven weeks for new driving licences to be issued by Dublin Corporation from Riverside House, Dublin 7; and the advice which staff at Riverside House give to those whose licences have expired in the context of the delays that are occurring at present.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Flynn)

Following the introduction in November last of the new European model driving licence, certain temporary delays in the issuing of licences occurred resulting from a combination of unfamiliarity with the new procedures and staffing constraints.

I understand that the present delay in the issuing of driving licences by Dublin Corporation does not exceed 11 days and that the corporation expect to reduce this considerably in the near future.

The gardaí were informed of the problem at the time of the introduction of the new licence. I understand that discretion was used by members of the force when enforcing the law on this matter.

The licensing regulations provide that a person may apply for a renewal of a driving licence up to one month prior to the date of expiry of a current licence.