Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 May 2021
181. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport the way in which the backlog of driver tests will be managed to ensure the backlog is cleared quickly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23875/21]
View answerDriving tests for essential workers will continue to be the priority for the driver testing service. In line with the gradual reopening of services, driving tests for all those who are eligible to take the test and have been waiting longest will recommence in a limited fashion this month and the situation will be kept under review.
The RSA and the Department plan to reduce the waiting times and backlog of those waiting for driving tests as quickly as possible. In addition to recently recruiting 40 temporary testers, the RSA is looking to increase the number of tests to 7 per tester per day as well as extending operating hours when restrictions are lifted. It is also planned to seek sanction to recruit a further 40 testers to tackle the backlog and waiting times when full services resume. This will bring the cohort of testers up to 218.
