Vol. 558 No. 1
71 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport his proposals for a review of the provisional driver licence system; when he expects the review to be completed; when he expects to have specific proposals in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23462/02]
139 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to abolish provisional driving licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23500/02]
158 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to reform the provisional licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23501/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 71, 139 and 158 together.
A provisional licence may be granted to a person who wishes to learn how to drive a vehicle to pass a driving test. This licence provisionally allows a person to drive that vehicle in a public place. Over the years various changes have been made to the regulatory conditions under which provisional licences have effect. I am considering whether further changes are desirable in this regard. I am reviewing the provision whereby holders of second provisional licences for cars are not required to be accompanied by a person who holds a driving licence for that category of vehicle. All other provisional licence holders other than drivers of motorcycles and work vehicles must be accompanied by a qualified driver at all times when driving in a public place.
However, I am considering renaming provisional licences to reflect their reformed status.
