Robert Troy
Ceist:691. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to deal with the backlog of driver tests; and when instructors will resume lessons. [13027/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 30 June 2020
Ceisteanna (691)
Freagraí scríofa
I am happy to be able to inform the Deputy that driver testing for trucks, buses and motorbikes resumed yesterday. It is planned that tests for cars, minibuses and vans will resume on a phased basis during this Phase before July 20. Final dates for resumption of car tests remain under discussion and are dependent on continued positive progression of the country against the overall Government roadmap.
Dates for the resumption of driving tests, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of the service, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.
The RSA is working on plans to deal with the backlog of candidates awaiting testing at the moment.
In relation to driving lessons, I can confirm that the RSA issued guidelines to all approved driving instructors last week with a view to them reopening their business on or after 29 June in line with the Governments acceleration of Phase 3 of the Nationl Return to Work Safety Protocol as developed by NPHET in consultation with national experts..
It must be noted that as private businesses, driving schools must ensure that they can comply with the necessary public health requirements, before they reopen their business.