asked the Minister for Local Government if he will make a statement on an amendment to EEC Draft Directive Com (72) 862, empowering member states to continue issuing national driving licences.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Driving Licences.
73.
I take it that the Deputy is referring to an amendment proposed by the United Kingdom which would enable member states to continue to issue until the year 2025 a domestic form of driving licence in addition to the standard licence proposed by the EEC. As indicated to the Deputy by the Minister for Foreign Affairs in the House on 28th February, 1974, briefing material was supplied to the Deputy on this draft directive. The brief indicated that we favour reciprocal recognition of driving licences. We see no useful purpose for us in providing for a domestic licence in addition to the Community licence and we would not be inclined therefore to support the amendment.
In the event of the European licence not being readily available, what plans has the Minister to deal with the situation?
This is a hypothetical question. As the Deputy is aware it would not be possible to give a reply to it without getting notice of it.