Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2012
305. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will examine the possibility of introducing driving lessons and driving theory as a compulsory component of the transition year programme in the interest of creating road safety awareness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47651/12]
View answerI have no plans to introduce driver education in the form of driving lessons in schools and this is not the norm within the EU. Research available internationally is inconclusive on the benefits of teaching young people to drive at school. Particular issues highlighted include the gap arising between the time practical skills are learned initially and put into regular practice and the risks arising from more young people taking up driving at an earlier age.
However, a road safety programme for transition year has been developed by the Road Safety Authority in collaboration with my Department, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment and the Professional Development Service for Teachers and has been offered nationally as an option since September 2008. The programme is available in twenty hour and forty-five hour units. It features inputs from agencies such as the ambulance service, fire service and An Garda Síochána, as well as providing for visiting speakers, trips out of school, projects and case studies.
The programme provides for an introduction to road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and motorists and covers such issues as seat belts and airbags, driver fatigue, drink and drug driving, enforcement, basic first aid at road crashes, emergency services and rehabilitation. The programme is also supported by digital resources, including DVD support and access to international websites on road safety issues. Relevant driver theory test learning is included at the end of each module. The programme does not include driving lessons.
