Seán Canney
Question:124. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Transport his plans to deal with drivers with learner permits who cannot take the driver test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44651/20]
View answerWednesday, 13 January 2021
Questions (124)
Written answers
My Department is in constant contact with the Road Safety Authority since the start of the pandemic regarding all of its services, the impact of Covid-19 on those services, and how they can best be maintained in the current circumstances.
Due to suspension of driver testing services in the first 2020 lockdown, along with the health protocols since resumption of service and the further curtailing of services during subsequent level 5 restrictions, a significant backlog has developed. The need to once again return to level 5 restrictions for reasons of public health will inevitably impact further on delays to driver testing. During the level 5 period, driving tests will be available only to those who are involved in essential services, including essential retail work.
While the service is limited during level 5 restrictions, the Road Safety Authority is examining ways of increasing the number of tests within health constraints with an eye to resuming wider testing after level 5. This includes increasing the number of testing staff to help reduce and, over time, eliminate the backlog.
In this regard, I am pleased to say my Department has recently given sanction for the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to commence recruitment of 40 temporary driver testers. These new hires will be in addition to the 36 temporary testers who I previously gave sanction to rehire during 2020.
The possible extension of driving licences is currently under consideration in Europe due to Covid-19. The possible extension of learner permits is also under consideration. Decisions on these issues are expected shortly.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) , through the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS), has expanded the online facility to accommodate all driving licence and learner permit applications to enable accessibility online rather than by calling to an office. A verified MyGovID account, which requires a Public Services Card, is needed to access the online system.