Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 4

Written Answers. - Driving Licences.

Noel Ahern

Question:

296 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will clarify the regulations in relation to the granting of driving licences to persons over 70; if he will take action to reduce the huge costs on pensioners; if pensioners can get a licence for only one year; if it is up to the general practitioner to recommend one, three or ten years; if a decision can be reversed or appealed; and if the charge can be abolished or some subsidy given in view of the fact a one year licence currently costs certain fees for pensioners (details supplied) whereas a one year licence for younger people averages at only £2 approximately. [27021/00]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

Applicants for driving licences who are 70 years of age or more must submit a medical report with an application for a driving licence and are restricted, depending on the certification of the doctor who completes the report, to either a one year or a three year driving licence. This requirement is considered reasonable and necessary in the interests of the individuals concerned, other road users and road safety generally. Formal review mechanisms are not provided for in relation to the above medical certification; it would be open to an applicant, or exceptionally to the licensing authority, to seek a second medical opinion.

In relation to the driving licence fee, it is proposed, arising from a review of the overall driving licence fee arrangements by my Department, to introduce more equitable licence fee arrange ments for persons aged more than 70 years. Amending legislation is required to implement this change. The necessary amendment is being provided for in the Local Government Bill, 2000, which was published last May.