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Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020

Wednesday, 27 May 2020

Questions (812)

Noel Grealish

Question:

812. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when he plans to resume driver tests particularly for those persons that urgently require a test in order take-up employment and require a full licence or a bus or truck licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7720/20]

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Written answers

The RSA is currently working, in consultation with my Department, on plans for the resumption of the range of services and functions for which it is responsible, following the publication of the Government roadmap and, more recently, the National Return to Work Safety Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.

As you will appreciate, the driving test raises particular problems in terms of compliance with the Protocol and in particular social distancing rules, as it requires the driver tester and the candidate to be within a two metre distance continuously for a period in excess of 20 minutes, in a very confined space which is not in itself a workplace under the control of the RSA.

However, it may be possible in the current circumstances to carry out driving tests safely in trucks, buses or ambulances, and the RSA examines if it can be done on a case-by-case basis when requested.

I appreciate that the inability to carry out driving tests at this time is among the many difficulties that we all are having to endure at this time, for those awaiting such tests. On a very preliminary appraisal of the Protocol, car driving tests may have to be the last of the statutory functions, for which the RSA is responsible, to recommence in or after Phase 5 of the Government's roadmap.

Dates for the resumption of the RSA's services, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of these services, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.

The RSA has always reserved a number of driving test appointments for those who need a full driving licence urgently, and will continue to do so when the driver testing service is back up and running.

The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time, whether from infection or from deaths and injuries on the road, and in this as in all aspects of the Covid-19 crisis, my Department will be guided by NPHET and national experts.

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