John Browne
Ceist:53 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for the Environment if he has examined the reasons for the high failure rate in driving tests at each test centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2374/94]
Vol. 446 No. 5
53 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for the Environment if he has examined the reasons for the high failure rate in driving tests at each test centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2374/94]
60 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for the Environment if he has examined the reasons for the high failure rate in driving tests at each test centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2377/94]
62 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment if he has examined the reasons for the high failure rate in driving tests at each test centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2379/94]
66 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for the Environment if he has examined the reasons for the high failure rate in driving tests at each test centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2375/94]
74 Miss Flaherty asked the Minister for the Environment if he has examined the reasons for the high failure rate in driving tests at each test centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2381/94]
105 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for the Environment the reasons for the high failure rate in driving tests at each test centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2415/94]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 53, 60, 62, 66, 74 and 105 together.
The average failure rate, nationally, for driving tests in the year to 7 October 1994 was 46.3 per cent and this level has varied only marginally over the years. The factors taken into consideration in the conduct of the driving test are laid down in an EU Directive and are prescribed in Irish law. The test is designed to ensure that holders of driving licences can drive competently and safely and with due regard for the convenience and safety of other road users. Quite apart from the necessity to comply with EU law, it would be inappropriate to lower the standard of test to enable a higher proportion of applicants to pass.