Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 2003

Vol. 572 No. 6

Written Answers. - Driving Tests.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

333 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he has made provision for alternative methods of assessment for those sitting the driver theory test, especially in the circumstances of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if a senior official of the driver testing section of his Department will meet, assess and advise on the options available for that person to take the driving test for a car. [24011/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

The specification which the contractor operating the driver theory test is obliged to meet provides for the delivery of a user-friendly computerised theory testing system and requires that candidates with special needs be provided for. That includes the provision of reading assistance and a voice-over with an extended time slot for the test.

The test is based on a question bank, which has been developed,inter alia, in consultation with the Association for Children and Adults with Learning Difficulties and the National Adult Lit eracy Agency. The question bank is available in book format or as a CD which includes voice-over audio.

In relation to the practical driving test, my Department already has established procedures to deal with candidates with special needs where we are made aware of those needs. It should be noted that the person concerned has already taken a driving test without any difficulties arising.

Question No. 334 answered with Question No. 320.