Vol. 564 No. 2
200 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the qualifications required by driving test examiners; the specific qualifications they have for examining people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9049/03]
At the time of recruitment, driver testers in the Department of Transport must meet certain requirements including having at least five years satisfactory driving experience within the seven years prior to the date of recruitment.
Successful candidates undergo intensive training and also receive periodic refresher training. Specific qualifications for examining people with disabilities are not required. The driving standard required is the same for all driving tests. Applicants seeking to do tests in cars which have been adopted to the needs of a person with a disability are facilitated.
201 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the ongoing training which a driving test examiner receives; if this meets with the recommendations outlined in the Comptroller and Auditor General's report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9050/03]
The report of the Comptroller and Auditor General made a number of recommendations relating to training for driver testers. Each of the recommendations is being implemented. All driver testers underwent a comprehensive two week refresher training programme in 2002 covering procedures to carry out the test, guidelines to assess faults, and training to enhance customer service in the delivery of the driving test. An assessment of future training needs for driver testers is also being carried out. The work of driver testers is monitored on an ongoing basis by supervisory driver testers with a view to ensuring that a uniform standard of test is maintained.
202 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the appeal and complaints mechanism in place for driving test applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9051/03]
A driving test candidate may appeal the result of a driving test to the District Court as provided for under section 33(5) of the Road Traffic Act 1961. My Department has a complaints procedure in place which allows for a candidate to make a written complaint. Each complaint is investigated and the candidate notified of the outcome. Leaflets setting out details of the complaints procedure are available at driving test centres, details can also be found on my Department's dedicated driver testing website at www.drivingtest.ie.
203 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Transport his proposals to publicise the fact that persons over 70 years, who qualify for a driver's licence, are entitled to a one year or a three year driver's licence free of charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9187/03]
The fee structure applicable to an application for a driving licence, including a nil fee in respect of an application by a person aged 70 years or more, is set out on the licence application form. Details of the fee structure are also contained on my Department's website at www.transport.ie.
