Written Answers Nos. 222-246
222. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reduce the lengthy wait-times experienced by those seeking to sit their driving test; when the wait-time can be expected to return to normal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12237/23]
View answerThe operation of the national driving test service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). I would like to assure the Deputy that the Authority is working closely with my Department to address the issue of Driver Testing waiting times.The Driver Testing service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand which is 28% up on 2021 figures and 27% up on 2018 pre Covid-19 pandemic figures.I am told that the current increase in demand for driving tests and the time to invitation for learner drivers has a number of contributing factors which include: an increase in learner permits in circulation which has grown by about 30% since Q3 2019; increased capacity in the Driver Theory Test when the service resumed post Covid-19 and an increase in Approved Driving Instructors capacity to deliver lessons to learner drivers which has increased the volume of learners becoming eligible and ready to take their test.The Authority conducted a review of the current and evolving needs of the driver testing service in 2022, following which my department sanctioned an increase in the permanent driver tester headcount from 100 to 130. I am informed that the RSA has deployed the majority of successful candidates across the driver testing service, with a focus on geographical areas with the longest waiting lists. It is expected that the remainder will be deployed by the end of March.With the need for further review given the continued backlog, the RSA conducted an updated analysis of demand and capacity in late 2022 and early 2023. My Department is actively engaged with the RSA in evaluating a subsequent request for additional resources.
223. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport the number of people on a cancellation list for their NCT in Cork. [12245/23]
View answer231. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport the number of persons currently waiting on NCT appointments in County Wicklow; and the average waiting times for same once an online booking has been made, in tabular form. [12297/23]
View answer232. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport the average timeframes for an NCT appointment date in each testing centre nationwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12298/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 223, 231 and 232 together.
The operation of the National Car Testing Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. I have therefore referred the Deputies' queries to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
224. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport the actions taken to decrease the NCT wait time in Cork. [12246/23]
View answer233. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department is undertaking to address the lengthy delays motorists are having obtaining appointments for NCTs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12299/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 224 and 233 together.
The operation of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). I have referred the Deputy's query to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
I am aware of the challenges that the RSA and the NCTS are currently facing to meet the high demand for tests and the ensuing delays for vehicle owners. My officials continue to meet weekly with the Authority, to monitor ongoing progress in reducing test delays and to ensure every possible action is being taken to reinstate an average waiting period of 12 days, as well as supporting all appropriate requests from the RSA for assistance. I have also met with the RSA Chief Executive and Chair to discuss this and other matters.
There has been some progress in addressing the long-term staffing issues behind this backlog. 110 inspectors were recruited in 2022 (including 44 recruited from outside the EEA). Recruitment of a further 55 qualified vehicle inspectors is ongoing, with a cohort of 595 testers currently in place. A number of other measures to provide additional capacity at test centres have been in place, including increased staff overtime and the temporary transfer of testers from the NCTS contractor’s Spanish operation for a period of three months. Testers are assigned to the test centres with the most significant delays. The RSA and their contractor have committed to continuing to seek to recruit additional testers on a urgent basis.
In the interim, I am advised that customers seeking test appointments may contact the NCTS directly, by calling 01-4135992 or by availing of the priority waiting list function via the NCT website, www.ncts.ie. In the majority of cases, these vehicle owners are provided with an appointment within 30 days.
225. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport the number of bus stops that have had solar panels installed; the cost of installing solar panels on bus stops; and the amount of revenue raised from advertising companies for the provision of electricity. [12249/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of bus stop infrastructure.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
226. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport the number of times funding was moved across budget lines within his Department in a process known as virement; the name and purpose of the fund the money was taken from; the name and purpose of the fund the money was transferred to; the dates upon which he approved of such transfers, since he took office; if the Department of Public Expenditure was consulted prior to the transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12279/23]
View answerFrom time to time the Department may seek to move funds between subheads, in a process known as virement, should over or underspends arise in subheads as the year progresses. Where underspends are concerned, the purpose is generally to maximise investment of the budget during the year, if investment opportunities arise elsewhere within the budget that are aligned with the Department's strategic goals. Where overspends are concerned, virements are to ensure that the overall budget is balanced, may reduce the need for a supplementary, and guard against the risk of an overspend on the overall budget, or "Excess Vote".
There have been circa 27 virements, or movement of funds between subheads, in the Transport budget since Minister Ryan took office. The Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform (DPENDR) confirmed sanction of the full 2020 list of virements on 20th May 2021 and the 2021 virements on the 24th March 2022. The 2022 list of virements is currently with DPENDR for sanction.
227. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport his plans to improve and open toilet facilities for commuters at Balbriggan train station, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12280/23]
View answer228. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport his plans to improve and open toilet facilities for commuters at Skerries train station, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12281/23]
View answer229. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport his plans to improve and open toilet facilities for commuters at Rush and Lusk train station, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12282/23]
View answer230. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport his plans to improve and open toilet facilities for commuters at Donabate train station, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12283/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 227, 228, 229 and 230 together.
As the Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The issue of the provision and operation of toilet facilities at each of the four stations mentioned by the Deputy is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann and I have therefore forwarded the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
234. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport the number of persons that are currently awaiting an appointment date to sit their driving test, broken down by test centre, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12300/23]
View answerThe operation of the National Driving Test service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority and the information requested is held by them. I have therefore referred the questions to the Authority for direct reply.
I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
235. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if he will outline the strategy to cease the disruption caused by drones at airports here; if he will identify the steps which need to be taken; and where the responsibility for action lies in each case. [12327/23]
View answerIrish airports have procedures in place to handle the risk posed by illegal drone activity, developed in accordance with guidance on managing drone safety risk issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. Safety critical areas are defined and a risk assessment is maintained at our airports.
The Government agreed on Tuesday 7 March to appoint daa to purchase and deploy counter drone technology at Dublin airport as a matter of urgency. daa is already examining potential technology solutions and engaging with potential suppliers with a view to having counter drone technology operational at Dublin Airport in a matter of weeks.
The Government also agreed that consideration will also be given to the tasking of an existing state agency to select and deploy counter drone technology more broadly to protect critical infrastructure, including our airports, in the medium to longer term.
236. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport the measures that will be implemented to eliminate unacceptable delays in applicants receiving appointments for driving tests across the country; if his attention has been drawn to applicants who have been waiting almost a full year for their test date; whether the emergency test booking feature can be extended to all frontline workers including healthcare professionals in training who are required to travel for placement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12358/23]
View answerThe operation of the national driving test service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). I would like to assure the Deputy that the Authority is working closely with my Department to address the issue of Driver Testing waiting times.
The Driver Testing service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand which is 28% up on 2021 figures and 27% up on 2018 pre Covid-19 pandemic figures.
I am told that the current increase in demand for driving tests and the time to invitation for learner drivers has a number of contributing factors which include: an increase in learner permits in circulation which has grown by about 30% since Q3 2019; increased capacity in the Driver Theory Test when the service resumed post Covid-19 and an increase in Approved Driving Instructors capacity to deliver lessons to learner drivers which has increased the volume of learners becoming eligible and ready to take their te
I believe the RSA operates a fair and transparent appointment scheduling process, such that those who are eligible and have been waiting the longest are offered a test first. Urgent tests are only available to applicants who are employed by the HSE, a private hospital or the emergency services where the candidate would need to drive as part of their job (not including commuting to their place of work).
The Authority conducted a review of the current and evolving needs of the driver testing service in 2022, following which my department sanctioned an increase in the permanent driver tester headcount from 100 to 130. Deployment of these successful candidates is almost complete and has been focused on geographical areas with the longest waiting lists.Given the continued backlog, demand and capacity of the driver testing service was further reviewed in late 2022 and early 2023. My Department is actively engaged with the RSA in evaluating a subsequent request for additional resources at the present time.
237. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport the steps he is taking to address the backlog in people waiting to take driving tests. [12480/23]
View answer301. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport the actions that he has taken to improve waiting times for driving tests [14021/23]
View answer302. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide details on the current waiting times for each driving test centre, including the number of people waiting for tests and waiting to be invited to apply for a test, and monthly break down, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14022/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 237, 301 and 302 together.
The operation of the National Driving Test service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the information requested on waiting times is held by them. Therefore I have referred that part of your question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.
I would like to assure the Deputy that the Authority is working closely with my Department to address the issue of Driver Testing waiting times.
The Driver Testing service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand which is 28% up on 2021 figures and 27% up on 2018 pre Covid-19 pandemic figures.
The current increase in demand for driving tests and the time to invitation for learner drivers has a number of contributing factors which include: an increase in learner permits in circulation which has grown by about 30% since Q3 2019; increased capacity in the Driver Theory Test when the service resumed post Covid-19 and an increase in Approved Driving Instructors capacity to deliver lessons to learner drivers which has increased the volume of learners becoming eligible and ready to take their test.
The Authority conducted a review of the current and evolving needs of the driver testing service in 2022, following which my department sanctioned an increase in the permanent driver tester headcount from 100 to 130. Deployment of these successful candidates is almost complete and has been focused on geographical areas with the longest waiting lists.
Given the continued backlog, demand and capacity of the driver testing service was further reviewed in late 2022 and early 2023. My Department is actively engaged with the RSA in evaluating a subsequent request for additional resources at the present time.
238. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport if he will clarify why an individual’s (details supplied) driving test continues to be delayed. [12481/23]
View answerThe operation of the national driving test service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA), this includes the scheduling of driving tests. Neither I nor my department have access to information in relation to in individual cases.
Therefore, I have referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
239. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport the steps he is taking to address issues concerning the pensions of former and current workers in a State transport body (details supplied). [12483/23]
View answerCIÉ has advised that the Group’s two pension schemes, namely the Regular Wages Scheme (“RWS”) and 1951 superannuation scheme (“1951 Scheme”), are currently not in compliance with the Minimum Funding Standard (MFS) as defined in the Pensions Act 1990.As the Deputy may be aware, the CIÉ Group is actively engaged in introducing changes to the schemes aimed at rectifying the significant deficit in order to meet the statutory Minimum Funding Standard required by the Pensions Authority. The changes also aim to sustain the pension schemes into the long-term.
In relation to CIE's Regular Wages Scheme (RWS), I signed three Statutory Instruments related to the RWS on 6th July 2022, with an operative date of 18th July 2022.
In regards to the 1951 Scheme, CIÉ has prepared and submitted a draft SI to give effect to Labour Court recommendations for the 1951 Scheme, as passed by a ballot of scheme trade union members in May 2021. This is being considered by my Department in conjunction with NewERA. The deputies may also be aware that the rules governing the 1951 scheme are currently subject to ongoing legal proceedings before the Commercial Court. The Hearing commenced on 24 May 2022 for 4 days and the outcome from the Hearing is expected in the coming months.Issues in relation to CIÉ pension schemes are primarily a matter for the trustees of the schemes, the CIÉ Group and their employees. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
240. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide public electric vehicle chargers in Allihies, Castletownbere and Eyeries, County Cork. [12484/23]
View answerThe Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the electric vehicle (EV) charging network over the coming years. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
Home charging is the primary charging method for most Irish EV owners as it’s convenient and cheaper for the consumer as well as assisting in the overall management of the national grid. Over 80% of charging is expected to happen at home.
However, there is also a need for a seamless public charging network that will provide for situations or instances where home charging is not possible, such as on-street and residential charging, destination charging and workplace charging.
Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI), a dedicated Office which oversees and accelerate Ireland’s transition to zero emission vehicles, has significant funding available in 2023 for the installation of EV charging across Ireland.
In January, I launched the national Strategy for the development of EV charging infrastructure, covering the crucial period out to 2025, alongside an Implementation Plan. The strategy sets out the government’s ambition regarding the delivery of a public EV charging network to support up to 195,000 electric cars and vans by the middle of the decade.
A range of new charging infrastructure schemes are being developed which will help provide another critical link in the overall network for public charging.
A new Residential Neighbourhood Charging Scheme will be launched by ZEVI for Local Authorities to provide EV charging for residents without access off street parking. This EV charging will be designed to mimic home charging and will incentivise off-peak charging in a location convenient to the resident’s home. In addition to this we will be working with local authorities to support them creating local charging plans to be rolled out in the coming years
Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland also launched a new destination charging scheme, the Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Scheme, at the end of January to support the installation of fast electric vehicle chargers into sports clubs. The scheme aims to install approximately 200 chargers into local communities providing a network of fast chargers across the island. It has been developed on an all-island basis in partnership with Sports Ireland and its recognised National Governing Bodies as well as in collaboration with the ESB Networks and Northern Ireland Electric and the commercial sector. The Scheme is funded to the value of €15m by the Shared Island Fund.
Public EV charge points are provided in Ireland by a number of charge point operators on a commercial basis. ZEVI is engaging with these charge point operators as key stakeholders in the delivery and roll-out of fast charging points across the country.
241. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that individuals who choose to tax their car on a quarterly basis are not charged extra than those who do so annually. [12485/23]
View answerMotor tax is payable on an annual, half-yearly or quarterly basis. The rates applicable to the half-yearly and quarterly options are 55.5% and 28.25% of the annual charge, respectively. These figures have remained generally consistent since the 1960s.
Each renewal of motor tax incurs the same transaction costs on the Department of Transport or the local Motor Tax Offices, in terms of staffing, tax disc printing and postage, regardless of the period covered. The relatively modest higher charges for quarterly or half-yearly renewals reflect these additional costs.
In addition to the increased costs, such an equalisation of rates at lower levels as proposed would also have a significant impact on motor tax revenue for the Exchequer. If the payment options were on an equal pro-rata basis the loss in terms of motor tax revenue for the Exchequer is estimated at over €35 million per annum, based on 2022 figures. This is therefore also a budgetary matter and would have to be considered in that context.
242. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport the status of an application for a wheelchair accessible vehicle by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12493/23]
View answerThe regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including the administration of grants for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA), under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016. I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV industry.
Accordingly, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
243. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of private parking operators such as a company (details supplied) charging the same rate for full-day parking regardless of what time during the day the charge was made, for example, the same charge for 10 am versus 10 pm; if he is aware that these parking machines are not equipped to provide true 24-hour parking services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12540/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
On 1st October 2017 the National Transport Authority (NTA) assumed its responsibilities as the regulator of vehicle clamping activities in both statutory and non-statutory (privately-owned) clamping places throughout the State.
Therefore, in light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to parking charges by APCOA, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
244. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider correcting the decision to omit the Port Access Northern Cross Route, Drogheda County Louth from the NDP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12579/23]
View answerThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants.
As regards funding under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme, the strategic road improvement projects listed in the current National Development Plan (NDP) are the schemes which were included in the original 2018-2027 NDP.
As regards potential future projects under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme, all capital projects must be appraised for compliance with the Public Spending Code taking into account available funding. Under the Public Spending Code, a Strategic Assessment Report (SAR) is required for all projects which are estimated to cost in excess of €10 million. To date no SAR report has been received by my Department from Louth County Council in connection with the proposed PANCR scheme.
245. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport if there are plans to replace the fossil fuel local service bus fleet in County Louth with buses that use alternative or renewable fuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12580/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure including the procurement of the national Public Service Obligation bus fleet.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
246. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a progress report on plans to construct a new coastguard station in Greystones, County Wicklow; if contracts have been signed for its construction; if he will provide a timeline for the delivery of the new station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12620/23]
View answerMy Department is responsible for the Irish Coast Guard building programme – essentially aimed at ensuring facilities for Coast Guard Units along the coast are fit for purpose. The programme is managed through the Office of Public Works (OPW) from planning design to build and on-going maintenance, with legal assistance as necessary from the Chief State Solicitor’s Office.
The Greystones project is a priority build on the Building Programme for the IRCG. It has been the subject of a number of significant revisions in terms of plans primarily owing to excessive cost and affordability. The location of the site identified for the new Coast Guard station has also presented challenges particularly in terms of the requirement to ensure adequate storm resilience.
The Office of Public Works are currently engaging with Wicklow County Council with regard to the final requirements of the site acquisition and plan development. Once these final matters are resolved the OPW will progress to tender and construction at the site with an expected commencement of works during Q4 2023.
