Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
841. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if it is possible for the purposes to applying for a learner permit with the NDLS to supply a PPS number or another form of identification in the place of a public services card number in view of the fact the appointment service for allocating the card has been temporarily suspended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8116/20]
View answerOnline applications for a learners permit can only be accepted with a Public Services card. As the Deputy will appreciate, a driving licence or learners permit is an important legal document, and before it can be issued, the identify of the applicant must be established beyond doubt. For that reason, an individual who does not have a PSC must present to the NDLS offices with a number of documents to prove his/her identity.
I would point out that a learner permit can only be applied for when the Driver Theory Test has been successfully passed, and as all NDLS public offices are currently closed, it is not possible to carry out the Driver Theory Test at this time.
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.
I appreciate that the inability to have access to the driving licence services at this time is among the many difficulties that we all are having to endure at this time, for those awaiting such tests.
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 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.
