Written Answers Nos. 879-903
879. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address a matter regarding the conducting of driver tests (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8481/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am disappointed that my observations would be taken as implying that the driving test would not resume in the present year. I have referred to the obvious difficulties of holding a driving test while ensuring the health and safety of testers and test candidates, and explained that it is likely that the driving test will not resume until phase 5 of the Government's Roadmap for reopening the county.
I am well aware of the difficulties which the suspension of driver testing services has caused, but as Minister I do not have the option of focusing on certain difficulties and ignoring the wider aspects of public safety. There could be no justification for risking the safety of learner drivers or other road users by granting them licences without a test - without proving that they are suited to be qualified drivers.
Figures show that only 52% of candidates passed the driving test in 2019. These people had all completed the mandatory programme of lessons. I presume that their instructors advised the other 48%, or most of them, that they were ready to take the test. Instructors are not testers, and their views of their pupils' driving abilities, however well-intentioned they might be, are hardly independent.
Passing a driving test to the specified standards is a prerequite under EU law. It is there for public safety. To suggest that this vital safety standard should be waived because of the inconvenience caused by other essential safety measures - in this case the closure of the driver testing service for health reasons - is rather bizarre. This would leave us with people getting a full licence who had not qualified for it, and who could be a risk to public safety on our roads for decades to come.
The driver testing service will open when it is safe to do so. The safety of the public on our roads will not be compromised in the meantime.
880. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason he has not yet released the rail report by a company (details supplied) assessing the economic viability of reopening the closed railway which runs from Athenry to Claremorris; the reason all freedom of information requests to his Department asking for the report have been denied; when the report will be finally released; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8483/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, Project Ireland 2040 committed to conducting an independent review toward evaluating a possible extension of the existing Western Rail Corridor northwards to Tuam (Phase 2) and/or Claremorris (Phase 3). Project Ireland 2040 also states that if Government accepts a proposal to extend the route then that extension will be prioritised over the lifetime of the National Development Plan.
In line with this commitment, Iarnród Éireann commissioned a financial and economic appraisal of the proposal and, in late 2019, submitted a copy of that appraisal to my Department. As was signalled publicly at the time of the commissioning of the appraisal, and, as is required under the Public Spending Code (PSC), my Department is reviewing the documentation that has been received and is engaging with Iarnród Éireann and the consultants as required during this review. Once that review is complete, the matter will then be brought to Government for its decision.
I hope the Deputy can see from the above that there has been no substantive delay to this process as first outlined in Project Ireland 2040 and as is required under the Public Spending Code. While there have been some unanticipated external factors in recent months, such as the dissolution of the 32nd Dáil in January and the outbreak of the COVID-19 Emergency, I can assure the Deputy that work is ongoing in order to finalise the review and bring the matter to Government. The on-going nature of this deliberative process is also the reason that FOI requests on the matter were refused and the Office of the Information Commissioner has very recently affirmed the Department's position on the issue.
881. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way in which a company (details supplied) is managing and monitoring physical distancing on Luas trams. [8486/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
The issue raised is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) in conjunction with the Luas operator Transdev and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to TII for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
882. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the meaningful measures which are being or have been put in place for the hotel and tourism sector to help a reboot of the sector in the areas of liquidity, VAT, the job subsidy scheme, rates and water charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8491/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has liaised with other Government departments and industry representative bodies, to align the economy wide COVID-19 supports and initiatives with tourism and hospitality needs.
The measures put in place by the Government to support businesses initially focused on supporting those who have lost their jobs and in supporting businesses to remain viable during this difficult time with specifically targeted supports to assist companies to stay operational and retain their staff.
As a result, many tourism businesses are now availing of the various cross-sectoral economic supports that the Government has already put in place such as; the wage subsidy scheme, increased unemployment benefits, the state credit guarantee scheme, working capital loan schemes, enterprise support schemes and deferrals of tax liabilities, VAT, social contributions and local authority rates.
Fáilte Ireland has set up a COVID-19 Industry Advisory Group which meets weekly. The purpose of this group is to provide support to the tourism industry and to facilitate the timely sharing of information and insights to help improve the sector's understanding and response to the crisis. Fáilte Ireland has also developed a COVID-19 Business Support Hub which offers a suite of targeted supports for tourism businesses including a series of webinars from experts in each field, as well as advice guides with detailed FAQs and templates where necessary.
On 1st May, the Government published a Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business to ease the COVID-19 restrictions and reopen Ireland’s economy in a phased manner. In this regard Fáilte Ireland, in conjunction with the relevant authorities, is currently preparing guidelines for the tourism sector.
Minister Ross and I have appointed a Tourism Recovery Taskforce to prepare a Tourism Recovery Plan which will include a set of recommendations on how best the Irish tourism sector can adapt and recover in the changed tourism environment as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. The plan will identify priority aims, key enablers and market opportunities for the sector for the period 2020-2023. The Taskforce may consult with stakeholders to inform its deliberations and report back this year. The membership of the Taskforce is available on my Department’s website.
883. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address a matter raised in correspondence from a person (details supplied) regarding driver tests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8495/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt must be understood that a learner permit is not a licence, but a permit to allow a person to drive while learning. The purpose of the driving test is to set out the minimum level of knowledge, skill and competency that a learner must demonstrate in order to become a fully licensed driver. Until a learner can meet this standard and pass this test, they are not safe to take to our roads without appropriate supervision.
I would also like to point out that the current pass rate for driving tests nationally stands at 52% for 2019, so having fulfilled all of the driving lesson requirements does not mean that an individual meets the standard required to pass the test.
Studies have repeatedly shown that unaccompanied learner drivers are markedly more likely to be involved in fatal collisions. For that reason, there can be no exceptions to the current laws in force around learner drivers. Regrettably, there has been an increase in fatalities on our roads so far in 2020, and we must not relax the standards required of our drivers before being awarded a driving licence, even in the case of frontline workers. Indeed, it has never been more important to protect the safety of our frontline workers.
An unaccompanied learner driver who is stopped by an Garda Síochána may face penalty points, a fixed charge, seizure of the vehicle and possible prosecution.
Due to the closure of services provided by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak, I took measures to extend the validity of a number of documents, including the learner permit. Any learner permits which were due to expire from 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020 inclusive have had their period of validity extended by 4 months. If it is the case that the NDLS centres have not re-opened before the extension period expires, the possibility of a further extension will be examined.
The RSA is currently working, in consultation with my Department, on plans for the resumption of the range of services and functions for which it is responsible, following the publication of the Government roadmap and, more recently, the National Return to Work Safely Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.
The resumption of driver testing will be of particular concern to learner drivers. As you will appreciate, the driving test raises particular problems in terms of compliance with the Protocol and in particular social distancing rules, as it requires the driver tester and the candidate to be within a two metre distance continuously for a period in excess of 20 minutes, in a very confined space which is not in itself a workplace under the control of the RSA.
I appreciate that the inability to carry out driving tests at this time is among the many difficulties that we all are having to endure at this time, for those awaiting such tests. On a very preliminary appraisal of the Protocol, car driving tests may have to be the last of the statutory functions, for which the RSA is responsible, to recommence in or after Phase 5 of the Government's roadmap.
Dates for the resumption of the RSA's services, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of these services, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.
The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time, whether from infection or from deaths and injuries on the road, and in this as in all aspects of the Covid-19 crisis, my Department will be guided by NPHET and national experts.
884. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress of the Cootehall and Croghan junction upgrade on the N4 between Boyle and Carrick-on-Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8497/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the operation and upgrading of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
885. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider offering an amnesty to those that applied pre-Covid-19 for a category B/BE driver licence authorising persons to tow a trailer in view of the fact that they would have completed all required lessons and would also have been given a test date only for the test to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that persons that may have applied for this are relying on same for employment reasons and cannot afford to wait until full services are resumed to obtain same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8506/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt must be understood that a learner permit is not a licence, but a permit to allow a person to drive while learning. The purpose of the driving test is to set out the minimum level of knowledge, skill and competency that a learner must demonstrate in order to become a fully licensed driver. Until a learner can meet this standard and pass this test, they are not safe to take to our roads without appropriate supervision.
I would also like to point out that the current pass rate for driving tests nationally stands at 52% for 2019, so having fulfilled all of the driving lesson requirements does not mean that an individual meets the standard required to pass the test.
Studies have repeatedly shown that unaccompanied learner drivers are markedly more likely to be involved in fatal collisions. For that reason, there can be no exceptions to the current laws in force around learner drivers. Regrettably, there has been an increase in fatalities on our roads so far in 2020, and we must not relax the standards required of our drivers before being awarded a driving licence, even in the case of frontline workers.
An unaccompanied learner driver who is stopped by an Garda Síochána may face penalty points, a fixed charge, seizure of the vehicle and possible prosecution.
Due to the closure of services provided by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak, I took measures to extend the validity of a number of documents, including the learner permit. Any learner permits which were due to expire from 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020 inclusive have had their period of validity extended by 4 months. If it is the case that the NDLS centres have not re-opened before the extension period expires, the possibility of a further extension will be examined.
The RSA is currently working, in consultation with my Department, on plans for the resumption of the range of services and functions for which it is responsible, following the publication of the Government roadmap and, more recently, the National Return to Work Safely Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.
The resumption of driver testing raises particular problems in terms of compliance with the Protocol and in particular social distancing rules, as it requires the driver tester and the candidate to be within a two metre distance continuously for a period in excess of 20 minutes, in a very confined space which is not in itself a workplace under the control of the RSA.
I appreciate that the inability to carry out driving tests is among the many difficulties that we all are having to endure at this time, for those awaiting such tests. On a very preliminary appraisal of the Protocol, car driving tests may have to be the last of the statutory functions, for which the RSA is responsible, to recommence in or after Phase 5 of the Government's roadmap.
Dates for the resumption of the RSA's services, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of these services, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.
The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time, whether from infection or from deaths and injuries on the road, and in this as in all aspects of the Covid-19 crisis, my Department will be guided by NPHET and national experts.
886. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a grant is being considered for sports clubs struggling with finances and repayments in view of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8560/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s overarching, cross-sectoral approach to the COVID-19 pandemic is to ensure that economic activity recovers as quickly as possible, consistent with public health advice. Measures introduced by the Government to date, which have benefitted sports and community clubs as well as their national governing bodies, include: the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme, the Pandemic Unemployment Payment and the series of enterprise supports ranging from liquidity funding, loan schemes and grants/vouchers, as well as deferred tax payments and deferral of commercial rates.
I am acutely aware of the particular difficulties and challenges facing sports clubs. A COVID-19 Sports Monitoring Group, chaired at Ministerial level, has been established to engage directly with the sporting bodies. Sport Ireland is also directly engaging with the sporting bodies on an ongoing basis in relation to the development of protocols to facilitate a safe return to training and competition.
This extensive engagement with the sport sector has highlighted the significant, adverse impact of COVID-19 at all levels of the Irish sporting landscape. It has also demonstrated the importance of implementing an appropriate and focused response to the challenges facing all strands of the sector, ranging from the local sporting organisations and clubs to the National Governing Bodies. It is accordingly intended to develop a Sport Recovery Action Plan, in consultation with the sector, aimed at minimising the impacts and preparing the sector to restart activity, as part of the national recovery and renewal.
887. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 1007 of 20 May 2020, if the NTA will consider extending the limit to March 2021 instead of December 2020 to give the industry the full year in view of the fact many SPSVs would have been purchased in January and February due to the new car registration system in place before 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8585/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra904. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if taxi and SPV driver licences will be extended for 12 months due to Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8746/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra925. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if taxi drivers whose licence expires in mid-June, July or August 2020 will receive an extension to their licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8929/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra972. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to extend the ten-year rule on taxi vehicles until 29 December 2021 to enable taxi drivers to recover financially. [9470/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 887, 904, 925 and 972 together.
The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including the regulatory response to the present COVID-19 pandemic, is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.
The NTA has extended licences expiring before 12 June 2020 by three months, waived late licence renewal fees, and temporarily relaxed rules around vehicle age limits. The need for further measures will continue to be reviewed in the context of the Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business.
Given the role of the NTA as regulator, I have referred your question to the Authority for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
888. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has examined the impact of Covid-19 on Irish hauliers such as data on a decline in their activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8627/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra889. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of empty trailers that travelled on ferries to and from Ireland in February, March and April 2020; and the number of empty trailers that did so in the same time periods in 2018 and 2019. [8628/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra890. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered simplifying the process through which hauliers can apply for a tax rebate on vehicles that are temporarily off the road due to Covid-19. [8629/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra891. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered extending a temporary exemption from tolls to hauliers in view of Covid-19; and the estimated quarterly cost of introducing such a measure. [8630/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 888 to 891, inclusive, together.
Maintaining transport connectivity to support the movement of goods into and out of Ireland has remained a primary objective of Government throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Critical supply chains have continued to function well in recent months; however, the pandemic has negatively impacted freight activity levels across land, sea and air, with the road haulage sector, like many industries, having been affected as a consequence.
COVID-19 and the overall decline in economic activity have caused a shift to the usual patterns of imports and exports including those moved by sea. Reductions in overall freight activity are understandable given the temporary closure of a range of commercial activities both here in Ireland and abroad. Consequently, I understand that some hauliers operating internationally have in some instances found it increasingly difficult to ensure full loads for both inbound and outbound trips.
The CSO publishes details of roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) traffic handled by port each quarter including the number of freight vehicles, including details of the number of empty vehicles and trailers - the most recent details for RoRo traffic can be found at the following link: www.cso.ie/en/releasesandpublications/er/spt/statisticsofporttrafficquarter32019/.
While the CSO figures for Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 of this year are not yet available, the Deputy will see from the CSO’s statistics for Quarter 3 of 2019 that over 36,000 vehicles or trailers on RoRo routes (Dublin, Rosslare and Cork) were empty. My Department, in conjunction with the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO), continues to closely monitor maritime freight activity levels and overall supply chain issues continue to be monitored on a cross-departmental basis. The Government approved a temporary public service obligation arrangement with ferry companies to retain services on specific, strategically important routes during the COVID-19 outbreak. These arrangements safeguard maritime connectivity between Irish RORO ports and Great Britain/Europe during the crisis, which is crucial for Irish hauliers operating on international journeys.
An increase in ‘empty leg’ journeys during the COVID-19 pandemic is not specific to Irish hauliers, with incidents reported across Europe at this time. As sectors begin to re-open both here (with Phase One of the Recovery Roadmap already underway) and across Europe, I expect the demand for goods to begin to rebound also. Phase Two of Ireland’s Recovery Roadmap should see further commercial ventures returning to operation. As a consequence, business for haulage operators should begin to revert toward more traditional levels and encouragingly, freight activity is beginning to show some early indications of improvements.
In relation to the Deputy’s question to consider a refund of motor tax for vehicles temporarily off the road due to COVID-19, it should be noted that there is no provision in legislation for motor tax to be suspended or refunded in such circumstances. However, vehicles can be declared off the road if they are not going to be in use in a public place; the Non-Use of Motor Vehicles Act 2013 replaced the old system whereby a vehicle could be declared off the road retrospectively with a new system under which the vehicle must be declared off the road in advance. A declaration must be made in the last month of an existing motor tax disc or renewed in the last month of a previously made declaration of non-use. The declaration can be made for any number of calendar months between 3 and 12 months. If a vehicle is subsequently required to be put back on the road, the declaration can be invalidated at any time simply by taxing the vehicle. Where a declaration is not made in advance, arrears of motor tax must be paid in full and motor tax paid for a minimum of 3 months before a declaration of non-use can then be made in the final month of the tax disc. The provisions of the Act are not sector-specific and apply to all vehicle owners in the same manner.
Regarding exempting road hauliers from paying motorway tolls for the period of the COVID-19 crisis there have been very few examples where this has been implemented in Europe to date. The provision of toll exemptions is not widely employed due to the critical role that toll revenues play in funding the construction, operation and maintenance of the primary and secondary road network. Introducing a temporary toll-free period would in turn impact on Ireland’s ability to fund necessary work and activities across the national road network which is a critical asset for the entire transport sector, including the road haulage sector.
Finally, the Deputy may wish to note that Ireland introduced a number of COVID-19 specific measures to support the continued functioning of the road haulage sector, including:
- A temporary derogation from certain provisions of the EU drivers’ hours rules, put in place in mid-March, and which expired on 31 May 2020;
- An extension of expiry dates on driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) cards – Irish Driver CPC cards that expire during the COVID-19 outbreak will be valid up to 26 September 2020;
- A three-month extension for vehicles with a Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness (CVR) Test due on or after 28 March 2020;
- An extension of validity periods for drivers with driving licences due to expire between 1 March and 30 June 2020 inclusive, their date of expiry being extended by 4 months;
- Publishing an array of practical documents, including workplace guidance on how to manage business continuity; a communication regarding access to sanitary facilities and motorway services; a summary of motorway service area facilities; and guidelines for cleaning HGVs;
- An array of enterprise COVID-19 specific supports that many sectors, including the road haulage sector can also avail of including the Credit Guarantee Scheme; the COVID-19 Working Capital Scheme; Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 loan finance; Wage Subsidy Payments; and Pandemic Unemployment Payments.
892. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he is taking regarding the hospitality sector here post the five phase Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business in order to assist business owners from all sectors of hospitality; his plans to broaden the work of the Tourism Recovery Taskforce; if a stakeholder map exists regarding the task force; if all sectors and or hospitality stakeholders will be consulted; if they can make submissions to the task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8657/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the sequence of actions detailed in ‘Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business’, the majority of tourism or tourism-related businesses are scheduled to reopen from Phase 4, which is also when travel beyond the home area (>20km) is due to be permitted. To assist tourism businesses meet social distancing and cleaning requirements in line with the national ‘Return to Work Safely’ protocol, Fáilte Ireland is currently preparing detailed guidelines for the sector, in consultation with the tourism industry and relevant authorities.
The Tourism Recovery Taskforce was established by Minister of State Brendan Griffin and I on 20 May 2020. The purpose of the Taskforce is to prepare a Tourism Recovery Plan which will include a set of recommendations on how best the Irish tourism sector can adapt and recover in the changed tourism environment as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. The plan will identify priority aims, key enablers and market opportunities for the sector for the period 2020-2023. The Taskforce may consult with stakeholders to inform its deliberations and will report back later this year.
It is envisaged that the Taskforce will establish working groups to carry out specific tasks and that it will undertake a widespread stakeholder consultation process whereby all sectors and interested parties will have an opportunity to provide constructive inputs and innovative ideas on how this vital sector to our economy can adapt and recover in a meaningful and sustainable way.
893. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to increase resources and funding of Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland in 2020 and 2021; if these bodies will require supplementary and or top-up funding in 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8658/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMinister Griffin and I have appointed a Tourism Recovery Taskforce to prepare a Tourism Recovery Plan which will include a set of recommendations on how best the Irish tourism sector can adapt and recover in the changed tourism environment as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. The plan will identify priority aims, key enablers and market opportunities for the sector for the period 2020-2023.
Funding for the tourism agencies is the subject of the annual estimates discussion with the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform.
895. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason no representative from the coach hire or chauffeur drive tourism industry was included in the recently announced Tourism Recovery Taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8661/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra980. Deputy Norma Foley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if representation from bus and coach operators will be included on the new Tourism Recovery Taskforce. [9581/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 895 and 980 together.
The Tourism Recovery Taskforce was established by Minister of State Brendan Griffin and I on 20 May 2020. The purpose of the Taskforce is to prepare a Tourism Recovery Plan for submission to the Ministers which will include a set of recommendations on how best the Irish tourism sector can adapt and recover in the changed tourism environment as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. The plan will identify priority aims, key enablers and market opportunities for the sector for the period 2020-2023. The Taskforce may consult with stakeholders to inform its deliberations and will report back later this year.
The Taskforce is made up of an independent chairperson and 13 other members from a broad spectrum of backgrounds including tourism policy, tourism enterprise, international, private and public service. The Minister of State and I selected members on the basis of each person's capacity to bring his/her personal knowledge, skills, experience, competence, capability, strategic leadership and ideas to the work of the group. We have appointed individuals who, together, will work for the good of Irish Tourism as a whole. I can assure the Deputy that in the same manner that no sector was deliberately included, no sector was deliberately excluded.
It is envisaged that the Taskforce will establish working groups to carry out specific tasks and that the Taskforce will undertake a widespread stakeholder consultation process whereby all sectors and interested parties will have an opportunity to provide constructive inputs and innovative ideas on how this vital sector to our economy can adapt and recover in a meaningful and sustainable way. Representatives from the coach hire and chauffeur drive sector will have an opportunity to contribute to the work of the Taskforce in this way.
I should also point out that in addition to the Tourism Recovery Taskforce, there are other fora whereby tourism stakeholders, including representatives from the coach and chauffeur sector, can contribute. Representatives from the sector have been invited to participate in Fáilte Ireland’s Covid Advisory Group which meets on a weekly basis. Furthermore, officials on the Transport side in my Department are in regular contact with the representatives of the coach sector in the context of the difficulties its members are facing as a result of the Covid crisis.
896. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will give consideration to the requests of an association (details supplied) regarding the urgent need to provide support to a sector due to the severe difficulties facing this industry as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8683/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFirstly I would like to advise that officials in my Department have commenced engagement with the Coach Tourism & Transport Council of Ireland and will continue to do so on a regular basis.
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 health emergency, the Government has been clear that continued operation of the public transport sector is important and designated public transport as an “essential service” during the Covid-19 emergency, recognising the importance of keeping the system running especially for carrying essential workers and other passengers making necessary journeys throughout the crisis period.
The introduction of restrictions on public movement and the temporary closure of many workplaces, education centres and leisure and social activities across the country has led to an unprecedented fall in demand for public transport. Nonetheless, public transport has served, and will continue to serve, a vital role in transporting essential workers and in supporting Government’s Roadmap to Reopening Society and Business in the weeks and months ahead.
Public health advices on social distancing are relevant across the public transport sector, and operators are implementing measures to facilitate adequate social distancing measures on-board; this significantly reduces the carrying capacity of public transport services.
While the majority of public transport in Ireland is provided by the publicly-subvented bus and rail services funded through National Transport Authority's (NTA) public service obligation (PSO) programme, the public transport system also includes non-subvented bus services provided on a commercial basis by bus and coach businesses of varying size. I understand that about 90% of the commercial bus operators have suspended their services or are providing significantly reduced services at present.
From my Department's engagement with their representatives, and indeed from the NTA's regular engagement with them throughout the crisis, I understand the very difficult business environment that the commercial bus operators are now dealing with. Indeed, across Government we are acutely aware that the Covid-19 situation presents huge challenges for many business sectors.
That is why we have worked to introduce a wide programme of Government supports for impacted businesses. The range of supports available includes new schemes of wage subsidies, rates waivers, re-start grants, lending facilities, equity injection, and business advisory supports for example. I am engaging with my colleague, the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation about these matters and am raising with her the concerns and situation of the commercial operators.
897. Deputy Joe O'Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when driver test centres are due to reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8688/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraDue to the closure of services provided by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak, I took measures to extend the validity of a number of documents, including the learner permit. Any learner permits which were due to expire from 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020 inclusive have had their period of validity extended by 4 months. If it is the case that the NDLS centres have not re-opened before the extension period expires, the possibility of a further extension will be examined.
The RSA is currently working, in consultation with my Department, on plans for the resumption of the range of services and functions for which it is responsible, following the publication of the Government roadmap and, more recently, the National Return to Work Safely Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.
The resumption of driver testing raises particular problems in terms of compliance with the Protocol and in particular social distancing rules, as it requires the driver tester and the candidate to be within a two metre distance continuously for a period in excess of 20 minutes, in a very confined space which is not in itself a workplace under the control of the RSA.
I appreciate that the inability to carry out driving tests at this time is among the many difficulties that we all are having to endure at this time, for those awaiting such tests. On a very preliminary appraisal of the Protocol, car driving tests may have to be the last of the statutory functions, for which the RSA is responsible, to recommence in or after Phase 5 of the Government's roadmap.
Dates for the resumption of the RSA's services, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of these services, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.
The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time, whether from infection or from deaths and injuries on the road, and in this as in all aspects of the Covid-19 crisis, my Department will be guided by NPHET and national experts.
898. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for the resumption of driver tests; the number waiting for driver tests by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8701/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraDue to the closure of services provided by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak, I took measures to extend the validity of a number of documents, including the learner permit. Any learner permits which were due to expire from 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020 inclusive have had their period of validity extended by 4 months. If it is the case that the NDLS centres have not re-opened before the extension period expires, the possibility of a further extension will be examined.
The RSA is currently working, in consultation with my Department, on plans for the resumption of the range of services and functions for which it is responsible, following the publication of the Government roadmap and, more recently, the National Return to Work Safely Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.
The resumption of driver testing raises particular problems in terms of compliance with the Protocol and in particular social distancing rules, as it requires the driver tester and the candidate to be within a two metre distance continuously for a period in excess of 20 minutes, in a very confined space which is not in itself a workplace under the control of the RSA.
I appreciate that the inability to carry out driving tests is among the many difficulties that we all are having to endure at this time, for those awaiting such tests. On a very preliminary appraisal of the Protocol, car driving tests may have to be the last of the statutory functions, for which the RSA is responsible, to recommence in or after Phase 5 of the Government's roadmap.
Dates for the resumption of the RSA's services, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of these services, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.
The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time, whether from infection or from deaths and injuries on the road, and in this as in all aspects of the Covid-19 crisis, my Department will be guided by NPHET and national experts.
As the information requested in the second part of the Deputy's question is held by the Road Safety Authority, I have forwarded the question to the Authority for direct response. Please contact my office if no reply is received within 10 working days.
899. Deputy Joe O'Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if consideration has been given to allowing driver tests to take place under the criteria of exceptional circumstances of the Road Safety Authority, in which a person’s continued employment is reliant on obtaining a driver licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8714/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraDue to the closure of services provided by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak, I took measures to extend the validity of a number of documents, including the learner permit. Any learner permits which were due to expire from 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020 inclusive have had their period of validity extended by 4 months. If it is the case that the NDLS centres have not re-opened before the extension period expires, the possibility of a further extension will be examined.
The RSA is currently working, in consultation with my Department, on plans for the resumption of the range of services and functions for which it is responsible, following the publication of the Government roadmap and, more recently, the National Return to Work Safely Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.
The resumption of driver testing raises particular problems in terms of compliance with the Protocol and in particular social distancing rules, as it requires the driver tester and the candidate to be within a two metre distance continuously for a period in excess of 20 minutes, in a very confined space which is not in itself a workplace under the control of the RSA.
I appreciate that the inability to carry out driving tests is among the many difficulties that we all are having to endure at this time, for those awaiting such tests. On a very preliminary appraisal of the Protocol, car driving tests may have to be the last of the statutory functions, for which the RSA is responsible, to recommence in or after Phase 5 of the Government's roadmap.
Dates for the resumption of the RSA's services, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of these services, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.
The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time, whether from infection or from deaths and injuries on the road, and in this as in all aspects of the Covid-19 crisis, my Department will be guided by NPHET and national experts.
901. Deputy Joe O'Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the measures which will be put in place to ensure the survival of the bus and coach sector in view of the important roles it plays in terms of public transport especially the school transport service and the tourism sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8728/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme comes under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Education and Skills. Bus services outside that scheme are part of the overall public transport sector.
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 health emergency, the Government has been clear that continued operation of the public transport sector is important and designated public transport as an “essential service” during the Covid-19 emergency, recognising the importance of keeping the system running especially for carrying essential workers and other passengers making necessary journeys throughout the crisis period.
The introduction of restrictions on public movement and the temporary closure of many workplaces, education centres and leisure and social activities across the country has led to an unprecedented fall in demand for public transport. Nonetheless, public transport has served, and will continue to serve, a vital role in transporting essential workers and in supporting Government’s Roadmap to Reopening Society and Business in the weeks and months ahead.
Public health advices on social distancing are relevant across the public transport sector, and operators are implementing measures to facilitate adequate social distancing measures on-board; this significantly reduces the carrying capacity of public transport services.
While the majority of public transport in Ireland is provided by the publicly-subvented bus and rail services funded through National Transport Authority's (NTA) public service obligation (PSO) programme, the public transport system also includes non-subvented bus services provided on a commercial basis by bus and coach businesses of varying size. I understand that about 90% of the commercial bus operators have suspended their services or are providing significantly reduced services at present.
From my Department's engagement with their representatives, and indeed from the NTA's regular engagement with them throughout the crisis, I understand the very difficult business environment that the commercial bus operators are now dealing with. Indeed, across Government we are acutely aware that the Covid-19 situation presents huge challenges for many business sectors.
That is why we have worked to introduce a wide programme of Government supports for impacted businesses. The range of supports available includes new schemes of wage subsidies, rates waivers, re-start grants, lending facilities, equity injection, and business advisory supports for example. I am engaging with my colleague, the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation about these matters and am raising with her the concerns and situation of the commercial operators.
902. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the provisions which will be in place for campsites and caravan parks when they reopen that have shared washing and catering facilities; and when operators of these sites will be able to access the latest information available in view of the fact that they need to prepare for opening. [8738/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the sequence of actions detailed in the ‘Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business’, caravan and camping parks are due to reopen in Phase 4. In this regard, Fáilte Ireland is currently finalising guidelines for the tourism sector in consultation with the tourism industry and relevant authorities.
I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland to supply any further relevant detail directly to the Deputy. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
903. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if clarity will be provided on queries from an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8743/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006), the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has responsibility for the operation, oversight, development, quality assurance and delivery of CVR testing arrangements. Accordingly, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
