Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 October 2020
242. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice the timeline for delivering the ability to apply for driver licences and bank accounts for persons resident in direct provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30725/20]
View answerThe issuing of driving licences and learner permits to international protection applicants is currently being considered by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in consultation with my Department. While there are a number of complex legal and administrative issues to be resolved, work is ongoing in this regard.
In relation to the ability of applicants for international protection to open bank accounts, senior officials of my Department are discussing the matter with representatives of the Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) to see how the issue can be progressed.
