Driver Licences

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 November 2021

Thursday, 4 November 2021

Questions (220)

Gino Kenny

Question:

220. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the details of any specific legislative amendment introduced to allow applications for driving licences by asylum seekers. [48556/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

As set out in the Programme for Government, the Government will act on interim recommendations from the Chair of the Expert Group on the Provision of Support, including Accommodation, to Persons in the International Protection Process (Asylum Seekers) to improve conditions for asylum seekers currently living in the system. This includes the ability to apply for driver licences. There are complex legal, administrative, and technical issues to consider and resolve to provide this access. As Irish driving licence legislation is based on a framework of EU law, consideration must also be given to the relevant EU Directives.

Legislative requirements are being examined in conjunction with the Road Safety Authority, the Department of Justice and the Attorney General's Office.