Jack Wall
Ceist:78 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive a date for a driving test. [2171/03]
Written Answers. - Driving Tests.
Due to the unprecedented volume of applications for the driving test received in my Department in recent weeks, some applications have not yet been processed. To date, there is no record in my Department of an application from the person named.
John Bruton
Ceist:79 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the action he is taking with regard to quickening the process of driving test applications; the way in which he plans to resolve the current backlog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2217/03]
The current level of applications for the driving test and the resultant backlog is unprecedented. While the capacity of the driving test service to deliver tests has increased significantly in recent years, I am considering, in consultation with the Minister for Finance, what other measures can be taken to enable tests to be offered within the shortest possible time.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:80 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport when the last review of guidelines for driving testers took place; and the nature and outcome of that review. [2259/03]
A review of guidelines and procedures operated by driver testers was carried out in conjunction with a training programme in 2002. Various changes have been introduced as a result of this review, including the introduction of a more detailed new test report sheet which is given to all candidates.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:81 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the proportion of driving testers who are women; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2260/03]
My Department employs a chief driver tester and ten supervisory testers, all of whom are male. Of the 115 driver testers employed, eight are female. My Department adopts an equal opportunities policy in relation to recruitment of driver testers.