Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 January 2023

Tuesday, 24 January 2023

Questions (213)

Emer Higgins

Question:

213. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport To ask the Minister for Transport, in view of the shortage of drivers for public service vehicles and the knock-on impact on commuters, if driving test applications for these essential workers can be prioritised by the Road Safety Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2969/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the operation of the National Driving Test. In this capacity, the Authority deals with all test applications and scheduling matters. I have no power to intervene in individual cases.

However, I understand that the Authority has been engaging with the Public Service Operators and their trainees' applications are being prioritised given the current driver shortages.