As I indicated in my reply to Question No. 122 of 25 March last, 13 driver testers are assigned to the south-east region covering ten driving test centres, including Dungarvan and Waterford. The level of service at the test centres is generally consistent with service levels in other centres. The allocation of driver testers to test centres is kept under review, having regard to the demand for tests. The waiting times at the Waterford and Dungarvan centres are being addressed in this context.
The overall numbers awaiting a driving test nationally have risen because of an above average increase of 21% in applications in 2003 compared to 2002. There are indications that applications have returned to normally expected levels, however. I anticipate that waiting times will improve over the coming year. A bonus scheme for driver testers to help to address the backlog was introduced in May 2003 and terminated in November 2003. The possibility of introducing a further bonus scheme in 2004 is being considered. In addition to the bonus scheme, eight retired driver testers were re-employed with effect from 13 October 2003. Driver testers continue to deliver additional tests by working overtime on Saturdays and on weekends. Preparation of legislation to establish a driver testing and standards authority, which will take on responsibility for conducting driving tests and will have more flexibility to respond to variations in demand, is at an advanced stage. I expect to be in position to submit the text of the Bill to the Government shortly.
