Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 16 September 2016
1723. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered requiring drivers convicted of certain offences where appropriate to retake the driving test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24396/16]
View answerThe proposed requirement for such drivers to resit a driving test will likely need to be supported through primary legislation. The Road Traffic Bill 2016, which is currently awaiting passage through this House, having been passed by the Seanad ealier this year, focuses on three priority matters - drug driving including providing for preliminary roadside testing for drugs, mutual recognition of driving disqualifications with the UK, and the introduction of an option for local authorities to apply a 20km speed limit in built up areas.
Such a proposal, however, will be given consideration in the context of Action 107 of the 2013-2020 Road Safety Strategy, the recommendations from which are currently being finalised by the Road Safety Authority for submission to me for my consideration. Therefore, the 2016 Bill does not contain a provision for requiring disqualified drivers to retake the driving test.
