Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:222. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport the assistance that can be provided in the case of a person (details supplied). [23783/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 15 September 2020
Ceisteanna (222)
Freagraí scríofa
In response to the Covid-19 restrictions introduced by the Government on 27 March 2020, regulations were brought in to extend the period of validity for all driving licences that expired between 1 March and 30 June for four months.
A further extension was granted due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic restrictions and the disruption it has caused to licensing services delivered by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). Driving licences that expired between 1 March 2020 and 31 August 2020 are now extended for 7 months.
The NDLS has now resumed services however they 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 (RSA) 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.
People under the age of 70 and those that do not need to provide any supporting documentation, can apply for a learner permit and/or a driving licence online provided they have a Public Services Card and a verified MyGovID account. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is working to expand the online facility to accommodate all driving licence and learner permit application types.
Any queries in relation to driving licences or urgent cases can be addressed to the NDLS customer service at 0761087880 or by emailing info@ndls.ie.
I am also referring the Deputy's question to the RSA for further reply in relation to this specific case, noting that the Deputy has indicated that it appears to relate to an essential worker. Please advise my office if a reply has not been received within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51