Chris Andrews
Ceist:150. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when legislation will be introduced to regulate the use of e-scooters. [16696/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraProposed Legislation
Ceisteanna (150)
Freagraí scríofa
As I stated previously to the Deputy, I intend to legislate for the regulation of e-scooters in accordance with the Programme for Government. This will involve identifying and developing appropriate amendments to primary road traffic legislation across a range of areas, which will be complex and must also be done in a way that does not undermine the overall framework of road traffic law or road safety generally.
The Government's current legislative priorities are the necessary measures essential to manage the ongoing COVID-19 emergency and to address the economic and social consequences of the pandemic. Consequently, it is not possible to provide a detailed timeframe at this time.
Driver Test
Ceisteanna (151)
Eoin Ó Broin
Ceist:151. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when driver licence tests will recommence; and if priority will be given to those who have specific mobility requirements or caring responsibilities. [16713/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The RSA has been 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 driver testing service restarted on a gradual basis during Phase 3 of the Government’s road map for easing of Covid19 restrictions.
On Monday 29 June, driving tests resumed on a gradual basis for trucks, buses and motorcycles. Fourteen driving test centres reopened initially, but as the number of tests and categories of vehicles being tested increases in the coming weeks, the remaining test centres will reopen.
The RSA will update its website, rsa.ie, to advise on each centre as it reopens.
Following the publication by Government of a revised Phase 3 road map for reopening Ireland, driving tests for cars, vans and minibuses are now resuming on a phased basis. Priority will initially be given to frontline workers and those who had their tests cancelled when the driver testing service was suspended.
However, any driving test candidate can email urgenttests@rsa.ie to request an earlier test. They will be required to provide justification as to why they should be allocated an urgent test.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (152)
Joan Collins
Ceist:152. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will clarify with a company (details supplied) the reason there are consistent delays on the Luas red line in view of the fact that on 14 July 2020 there were announcements that there were delays on the line again. [16714/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding relating to public transport. However, I am not involved in the day-to-day operation of public transport.
The issue of delays on both Luas lines 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. I ask her to advise my private office if she does not receive a response within ten working days.
Following the commencement of Phase 3 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business on 29 June 2020, changes to the existing public transport social distancing restrictions were agreed, allowing a move from 2 metres social distancing to utilising 50% of the passenger-carrying capacity of public transport fleet. This will help to underpin public transport services during these unprecedented times, with a view to safeguarding public transport capacity in Phases 3 and 4 of the Roadmap for Re-opening Society and Business.
Alongside this change, it was also decided that the wearing of a face covering when using public transport would be made mandatory. The new Department of Health Regulations, which came into effect on 13 July, require passengers, with some exceptions, to wear face coverings. This gives additional protection to both passengers and transport staff.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Driver Test
Ceisteanna (153)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:153. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when driver tests will resume; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16723/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The RSA has been 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 driver testing service restarted on a gradual basis during Phase 3 of the Government’s road map for easing of Covid19 restrictions.
On Monday 29 June, driving tests resumed on a gradual basis for trucks, buses and motorcycles. Fourteen driving test centres reopened initially, but as the number of tests and categories of vehicles being tested increases in the coming weeks, the remaining test centres will reopen.
The RSA will update its website, rsa.ie, to advise on each centre as it reopens.
Following the publication by Government of a revised Phase 3 road map for reopening Ireland, driving tests for cars, vans and minibuses are now resuming on a phased basis. Initially, essential workers and those who had appointments which were cancelled due to Covid 19, will be prioritiesed by the RSA.
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.
Driver Licences
Ceisteanna (154)
Emer Higgins
Ceist:154. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that persons whose driver licences expire face a long delay in obtaining replacements and are unable to drive until they receive them; his plans to extend the automatic extension of driver licences to persons whose licences expire after 30 June 2020 until the backlog is cleared; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16769/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The possible extension of the validity of drvier licences for a further period is under consideration.
The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) recommenced services on a phased basis from Monday 8 June 2020. NDLS offices are unable to facilitate any walk-ins due to the social distancing requirements and in the interest of protecting the staff and customers. Therefore, all appointments must be booked in advance. This, of course, has led to an increase in the demand for appointments.
The Road Safety Authority is working with their providers to see how they can increase capacity while adhering to the return to work protocol. Options under consideration include extended opening hours, overtime and protective segregation barriers between booths. Some applicants may be able to apply online. Details are available on the NDLS website (www.ndls.ie).
Any queries in relation to driving licences can be addressed to the NDLS customer service at 076 108 7880 or by emailing info@ndls.ie.
Covid-19 Pandemic Supports
Ceisteanna (155)
Noel Grealish
Ceist:155. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the supports, subsidies and emergency funding measures given to Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann; the date on which the supports were given; the further supports planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16863/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport in Ireland. The Exchequer allocates funding for the purposes of both capital and current expenditure from the Department's Vote to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for allocation to the transport operators for the provision of public transport services and infrastructure. In Budget 2020, an overall allocation of €1 billion was secured to fund public and sustainable transport projects this year.
Since 2010, the award of Public Service Obligation (PSO) funding falls under the independent statutory remit of the NTA. The allocations to the companies are decided by the NTA in exercise of its statutory mandate and in accordance with the various contract arrangements that it has in place with PSO service providers.
The sharp decline in passenger numbers since mid-March this year as a result of the Covid-19 health emergency has caused an unprecedented fall in fare revenues, thus creating a wide gap between the operators' costs and actual revenues. This has put acute pressure on the existing Public Service Obligation (PSO) budget. In response to this situation, and in recognition of the role of public transport as an essential service and in facilitating the Government's Roadmap for Re-opening Society and Business, on 4 June the Government decided to make a substantial increase to the 2020 total PSO allocation, in order to enable the continuation of PSO services for the full year.
The Deputy may also be aware that on 25 June the Government agreed to a temporary funding supports, in accordance with EU and national legislation, for the licensed bus sector. These supports are aimed at ensuring the continued operation of essential licensed bus services for a period of up to six months. The package will be restricted to operators where a clear public interest justification supports such intervention and will be targeted at compensating the gap between specified costs and the revenues generated on the services. The NTA, as the public transport licensing agency, is responsible for administering funding support through the establishment of contracts between the NTA and the relevant operators.
These measures are, of course, additional to the wider programme of Government supports introduced for impacted businesses, including new schemes of wage subsidies, rates waivers, restart grants, lending facilities, equity injection, and business advisory supports for example.
In view of the above and the NTA's role in allocating transport funding to individual transport operators, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply. I ask him to inform my private office if he does not receive a reply within ten days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
National Car Test
Ceisteanna (156)
Chris Andrews
Ceist:156. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the regulation that all taxis must have their suitability test done within 30 days of their NCT test will be reviewed in view of the fact that due to the Covid-19 pandemic many tests were rescheduled to later in the year, which will result in a taxi driver (details supplied) having to pay to have another NCT test done; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16890/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including regulatory measures in 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. I am aware that the NTA has made arrangements with the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) to put a priority system in place for SPSVs. I also understand that no late renewal fees will be charged as a result of any delays experienced by licence holders due to a delay in securing an NCT appointment.
Given the role of the NTA as regulator, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for direct reply to him. I ask him to advise my private office if he does not receive a response within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (157)
Maurice Quinlivan
Ceist:157. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the timeline of works for the Coonagh to Knockalisheen road, Limerick; when he expects it to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16894/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the relevant local authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from the Council's own resources supplemented by State road grants.
Project Ireland 2040 identifies a programme of regional and local road improvement projects to be progressed with grant support and the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road is one of those projects. Implementation of the programme of projects is on a phased basis and progression of each project is subject to the profile of annual capital allocations available to the Department.
Implementation of the Coonagh to Knockalisheen scheme is the responsibility of Limerick City and County Council. Grant funding of €5 million has been allocated to the Council for this project in 2020. My Department recently approved this project to proceed to tender for the main construction contract.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Ceisteanna (158, 167)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:158. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to produce safe travel guidance for public transport users in view of the introduction of regulations for the mandatory wearing of face coverings on public transport which came into effect on 13 July 2020 under the Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) (Face Coverings on Public Transport) Regulations 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16902/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Cian O'Callaghan
Ceist:167. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way in which the requirement to wear face masks on public transportation will be enforced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17159/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 158 and 167 together.
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
Public transport has been serving a vital role in transporting essential workers, getting people back to work, and enabling the re-opening of businesses. As re-opening continues, more people need to travel on public transport. S.I. No. 244 of 2020 (Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (Face Coverings on Public Transport) Regulations 2020) was introduced on Friday 10 July and came into effect on Monday 13 July. The new Regulations require passengers, with some exceptions, to wear face coverings. This gives additional protection to both passengers and transport staff.
Public health advice tells us that face coverings are an important safety measure, especially in interior spaces, but that they not suitable for every individual. Recognising this, the new Regulations do not apply to children under the age of 13. Reflecting public health advice, the Regulations also allow that wearing a face covering is not required where a person has a “reasonable excuse”, and this includes where a person -
- cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of any physical or mental illness, impairment or disability or without severe distress,
- needs to communicate with another person who has difficulties communicating,
- removes the face covering to provide emergency assistance or to provide care or assistance to a vulnerable person, or
- removes the face covering to take medication.
The NTA is engaging with public transport operators regarding implementation of the Regulations. The NTA is also making arrangements for an easy and discreet way for vulnerable people who have a reasonable excuse for not wearing a face covering to communicate this with relevant public transport staff.
The Regulations are implementable by a “relevant person” who is defined as any officer, employee or agent of a public transport operator or of the NTA. A relevant person implementing the Regulations can seek the assistance of An Garda Síochána where needed.
Where a passenger is not wearing a face covering, a relevant person under the Regulations may:
- request the passenger to wear a face covering,
- refuse the passenger entry to the public transport vehicle, or
- request the passenger to alight from the vehicle.
Failure to comply is an offence and there are penalties (on summary conviction) for non-compliance.
Operators are already reporting high levels of compliance by passengers. I expect this to grow in the coming days as people understand the importance of protecting their fellow passengers and the staff of the public transport operators. It is not intended that enforcement or penalties will be needed often, but they are now available if necessary.
The Chief Medical Officer and the HSE are responsible for the issuing of guidelines in relation to public health and the public health advices apply across all modes of public transport. Guidance on the wearing of face coverings, including on public transport, is available on the HSE website. The NTA is working with public transport operators (both public and private) who are implementing public health advice in relation to issues such as cleaning regimes and social distancing measures designed to limit the risk of spreading Covid-19.
In addition, The 'Return to Work Safely Protocol' which was published on 9 May 2020 sets out the steps and processes employers and workers must take to mitigate the spread of Covid-19 in the workplace. The Protocol is a living document which will evolve with changing Public Health advice.
National Car Test
Ceisteanna (159)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:159. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason the vehicle of a person (details supplied) was scheduled for a reinspection at Northpoint Business Park Centre, Naul Road, Ballymun, Swords, County Dublin, following a test which identified minor defects must undergo a full NCT test. [16920/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The operation of the National Car Test (NCT) service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority and I have no role in individual cases. I have therefore referred the question to the Authority for direct reply.
I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
National Car Test
Ceisteanna (160)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:160. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason the Northpoint Business Park NCT Centre, Naul Road, Ballymun, Swords, County Dublin, did not include in a text sent to persons whose vehicles were due to undergo tests that payment by cash and by cheque would not be accepted. [16921/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The operation of the National Car Test (NCT) service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority and I have therefore referred the question to the Authority for direct reply.
Please note that the phased resumption of the NCT testing service is subject to public health guidelines and aligned with the Government's Roadmap for reopening Society and Business.
I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Covid-19 Pandemic Supports
Ceisteanna (161, 162)
John Lahart
Ceist:161. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the measures he is taking to protect and preserve vulnerable but viable businesses such as tour guides, chauffeur and limousines businesses and coach operators, many of which have mortgage-type loans on vehicles to ensure they thrive when tourism returns. [16923/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraJohn Lahart
Ceist:162. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he has taken to protect vulnerable professionals of many years' standing in the tour guide business who have helped to sell Ireland so successfully to visitors who return again and again; and the supports in place to protect them to ensure they can recommence as vibrant businesses when the turn in the pandemic comes. [16925/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 161 and 162 together.
The Government will shortly publish a series of immediate actions to support the economy - the "July Stimulus". In this context the Government will, among other things, consider further additional measures that may be needed to support the tourism and hospitality sector.
My 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 Government will continue to explore funding potential for all enterprises including tourism businesses as they work through the challenges facing them, including through any mechanisms allowable through the EU’s state aid framework.
Driver Test
Ceisteanna (163)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:163. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the aids in place to assist persons to prepare and pass the driver theory test; if there are supports similar to the reasonable accommodation scheme for State exams; if he has considered introducing such a scheme in view of the particular challenges some persons face but which have no bearing on their driving skills and competences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16927/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Driver Theory Test provider offers various options to accommodate candidates who may require special assistance to take their test.
For instance, they offer a voiceover option whereby the questions and answers are read out to the candidate over the headphones. Additional time is also allowed for the candidate to take the test. There is also a reader recorder service whereby a staff member will read the questions and answer options to the candidate and record their answers on screen. Other services offered include dyslexia support, professional and ISL video clips, or ISL interpreters.
To avail of extra time or a reader recorder service during their test, a candidate must write to the Driver Theory Test Service with medical evidence on official headed paper from a school, doctor or professional person confirming the assistance the candidate requires.
This should be posted to: Driver Theory Test, PO Box 15, Dundalk, Co. Louth.
Please note the voiceover option can be selected upon booking your test online or via telephone.
Translator support tests are available by special arrangement at certain centres. This support is for candidates who do not speak or understand English. Evidence of a candidate’s requirement for this service must be provided.
The Deputy should be aware that, due to Covid-19 restrictions, in-person assistance services such as translators, reader recorders and dyslexia support professionals are currently suspended. These will remain suspended until government guidelines allow the service to resume. Additional time, recorded voiceovers in English and other languages and ISL video clips are currently available to customers who require assistance.
Driver Licences
Ceisteanna (164)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:164. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of driver licences that expired during the Covid-19 restrictions; and the number of additional staff who will be required to ensure that these drivers are provided with updated licences within a reasonable time period in tabular form. [17073/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This is a matter for the Road Safety Authority. I have referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Aviation Industry
Ceisteanna (165)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:165. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the dispute in Shannon Airport between cabin crew and their unions with an airline (details supplied) concerning the nature of the engagement of the company with them in respect of working conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17108/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department has maintained regular contact with key aviation stakeholders, including Aer Lingus, since the start of the COVID-19 crisis. The aviation industry is one of the most affected by the global pandemic. All airlines have seen severe depletion of revenue and are facing various degrees of financial challenge.
The Government has brought forward a series of measures to support all businesses impacted by COVID-19. These include the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme, the Pandemic Unemployment Benefit, and the ISIF Pandemic Stabilisation and Recovery Fund for medium and large enterprises.
I understand that Aer Lingus is engaging with their employeees and representative bodies regarding the urgent requirement to reduce costs across its business, given the dramatic decline in demand for travel in the immediate term and the uncertainly regarding future travel demand.
Industrial relations are a matter for the airline and its employees and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has no role in relation to such matters. The industrial relations machinery of the State would be availabe to assist all parties to reach agreement, should the need arise.
Railway Stations
Ceisteanna (166)
Cathal Crowe
Ceist:166. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if proposals for the establishment of a railway station and-or park-and-ride facility in proximity to a stadium (details supplied) are being advanced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17128/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
In that regard the Deputy will be aware that this Government is committed to a fundamental change in the nature of transport in Ireland. In relation to our major cities that change will be driven by delivering upon the sustainable mobility projects and programmes outlined, or to be developed, in their metropolitan area transport strategies.
The Deputy is likely aware that the National Transport Authority (NTA) is working with the local authority in developing a Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy. This move toward evidence-based, plan-led strategic infrastructure development is in line with international best practice and allows for better integration of transport planning and land-use planning.
I understand that the NTA hopes to publish a draft Strategy in the next month and I believe that issues such as those referred to by the Deputy can be raised and considered as part of that public consultation period.
Question No. 167 answered with Question No. 158.
Driver Licences
Ceisteanna (168)
Richard Bruton
Ceist:168. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of arrangements to extend the driver licences of persons whose licences are expiring due to the large backlog for renewals and unavailability of appointments in addition to the fact that online renewals require a person to have a public services card, for which there is also a backlog. [17177/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The possible extension of the validity of drvier licences for a further period is under consideration. The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) recommenced on Monday 8 June 2020. The service resumed on a gradual basis and by Monday 29 June all NDLS centres, except Clifden and Belmullet, had reopened. Part-time NDLS offices in Belmullet and Clifden are expected to reopen in the coming weeks.
NDLS offices are unable to facilitate any walk-ins due to the social distancing requirements and in the interest of protecting the staff and customers and therefore all appointments must be booked in advance. This, of course, has led to an increase in the demand for appointments.
The Road Safety Authority is working with their providers to see how they can increase capacity while adhering to the return to work protocol. Options include extended opening hours, overtime and protective segregation barriers between booths. Some applicants may be able to apply online. Details are available on the NDLS website (www.ndls.ie). However, a Public Services Card is required for online renewals.
Any queries in relation to driving licences can be addressed to the NDLS customer service at 076 108 7880 or by emailing info@ndls.ie.