(Cavan) asked the Minister for Local Government if he will consider reducing the age limit for qualifying for a licence to drive an agricultural tractor from 17 years to 16 years of age.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Tractor Driving Licence.
9.
I have considered this matter but do not propose at this stage to reduce the age as suggested. The minimum age limits for holding licences to drive the various classes of vehicles were determined in 1964 following full consideration of all the factors involved.
(Cavan): Am I right in thinking that a driving licence to drive a certain type of motor bicycle may be obtained at the age of 16 and does the Minister not think that if it is safe to give a licence to a person of 16 to ride a motor bicycle it should be equally safe to give one for an agricultural tractor at the same age? Is the Minister aware that there is a very considerable demand from the farming community for the reduction in age that I seek?
Mainly because 16-year-old boys are cheaper to pay.
(Cavan): No, I am talking about farmers' sons.
The age for a driving licence for a motor cycle is 18.
(Cavan): If the Minister checks he will find that that is for the heavier type motor bicycle.
No, not since 1964. Prior to that, for the lower powered motor bicycle it was 16 but now it is not.
(Cavan): I have received the contrary information from the Minister's Department.
I am sorry; it has been retained for lower powered motor bicycles.
(Cavan): Does the Minister not think that it is equally as safe——
It only applies to the lower powered motor bicycles.
(Cavan): They can travel at 50 miles per hour.
Taking everything into account, the age limit of 17 is justifiable.
(Cavan): Has the Minister received any demands for this reduction?
Yes, there is quite a considerable demand. I would agree with that.