Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 December 2004
68 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to give additional funding to that granted in the 2005 Estimates for driver testing, in view of the anticipated establishment of the Driver Testing and Standards Authority in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32030/04]
View answerThe Driver Testing and Standards Authority Bill 2004, which provides for the establishment of the Driver Testing and Standards Authority, has commenced Second Stage in the Dáil. The process of appointing a chief executive officer has commenced and I anticipate that an appointment will be made early in 2005. The establishment of the authority will be based, in the first instance, on the current staffing structure having regard to Government policy on staff numbers. Additional costs arising from the appointment of the CEO have been provided for.
My officials will consult in due course with the Department of Finance about the appropriate annual budget for the authority to enable it to meet its objectives when it is established on a statutory basis.
