Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
839. Deputy Norma Foley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to cater for drivers who require a CPC to drive a lorry; and if it is possible to complete same online as can be done in the UK. [8096/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Road Safety Authority (RSA) has made allowances for professional drivers with driver CPC cards that have expired, or that are due to expire, and who are prevented from completing training due to the current Covid 19 outbreak.
Drivers who hold a CPC card due to expire (or expired on or after the 26 March 2020) have been granted an extension of a maximum of six months up to the 26th September 2020. Drivers will be required to complete any outstanding periodic training in advance of the 26th of September 2020.
There is no provision in place for the RSA to allow CPC courses to take place online. Driver CPC is classroom based and legislation governing CPC training states training must take place in an RSA approved CPC training centre. In addition, the RSA would have concerns in relation to on-line training as it would be difficult to quality assure the training session and ensure that drivers complete the minimum 7 hours training.
However, my department and the RSA are currently working plans for the gradual resumption of the various statutory functions of the Authority, following on from last week's resumption of Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Testing, and I expect to make further announcements in coming weeks.
