Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 January 2015
190. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide details of the numbers of persons over the age of 70 applying for renewal of their driver licence; if provision will be made to have free medical examinations made available for this group as this is a requirement for the renewal of their licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4153/15]
View answerThe operation of the National Driver Licensing Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. I have therefore referred that part of the Deputy's question which relates to numbers of applicants over 70 to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
In regard to costs for over 70s, the licence itself is free for applicants over that age. The requirement to obtain a medical report if renewing a driving licence is based on sound and long-standing practice, and international evidence of the risk of medical deteriorations due to age impacting on driving ability. I believe that it is very important that we retain this requirement.
The cost of the medical report is a matter for the medical profession, and does not come within my remit. I do not have any funds available to subsidise this cost.
