Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
206. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport if he was informed by the RSA on their plans to implement restrictions on tractor and work vehicle licences; what measures are in place in order that he as Minister is informed of any changes being considered to licences by the RSA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13245/24]
View answerThe Road Safety Authority (RSA) or my Department have not changed the licensing rules regarding tractors. Category W will continue to be the licence category that covers work vehicles and land tractors.
The definition of “work vehicle” means a vehicle (other than a land tractor) which has a maximum design speed not exceeding 40 kilometres per hour and which is constructed primarily for any work other than the conveyance by road of good or burden of any other description. Road traffic laws and CPC requirements only apply on public roads, not on construction sites.
My Department and the RSA are aware that the EU’s Fourth Driving Licence Directive, which may be adopted by end 2024, could provide a revised definition of tractors. Once the Directive has been published, my Department and the RSA will consult with stakeholders in advance of the introduction of any relevant national regulations. Until the new EU Driving Licence Directive is approved and enacted, the existing approach to tractor licencing will continue. The RSA website has been updated to reflect this.
No changes to licensing requirements can be made without amending the relevant national legislation, which can only be done by my Department.
