Vol. 524 No. 6
256 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans he has in the context of car driving tests to introduce measures to create awareness of other road users such as motorcyclists and cyclists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23653/00]
At present driving test candidates must be able to demonstrate that they are able to perform standard driving manoeuvres in safety in normal traffic situations. Candidates are expected to take all the necessary precautions, including observing potential or actual risks, showing due respect for other road users and reacting appropriately in actual risk situations should circumstances demand.
Candidates are, inter alia, assessed on their ability to observe and to react to situations that arise in the course of the practical driving test. Such situations would include observing and reacting correctly to motorcyclists and cyclists. The driver theory test to be introduced next year will, among other matters, test the candidates' knowledge of their responsibility towards other road users including specific risk factors related to vulnerable categories of road users, including cyclists.
