asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that, when driving tests are being carried out in Mallow town, County Cork, part of the test includes driving into and turning around in a newly built-up housing estate; and that parents living in it feel deeply concerned for the safety of their children; and, if so, if he will suggest a different route should be used.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Driving Tests.
20.
The problem in this case is common to all driving tests. For a proper assessment of his competency, a driver must be tested in various driving situations including those which he is likely to meet after he has passed his test. One such situation is driving in a purely residential area. Before a driver can be certified to be competent, and so entitled to drive at will in such areas, he must show on test that he has ability to drive safely in these circumstances.
Driving test routes are varied occasionally; the route used in Mallow will be subject to change like others.
In view of the fact that so many people fail their first and second driving tests, does the Minister not agree with me that this constitutes, not only a danger, but great annoyance to the parents of the children?
No.