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Driver Licences

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 October 2020

Tuesday, 20 October 2020

Ceisteanna (172)

Christopher O'Sullivan

Ceist:

172. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport if the expiry date on all driving licences for a period of six months will be extended in view of the long waiting times for appointments for renewals; and if the online facility to truck licence holders will be extended (details supplied). [31275/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

There is no plan to further extend the validity of driving licences. Irish driving licence law is based on a framework of EU law, and the current extensions brings us into line with the EU legislation.

The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS), provided by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), resumed services in June, following the closure of the centres due to the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions. All appointments must be booked in advance as it is not possible to facilitate any walk-ins due to the social distancing requirements and in the interest of protecting the staff and customers. This, of course, has led to an increase in the demand for appointments.

The RSA is working with their providers to see how they can create the additional capacity needed as quickly as possible, while adhering to the return to work protocol. Options being introduced include a combination of additional staff, extended and additional operating hours (i.e. Sundays where needed), and the provision of overtime. The NDLS booking system is undergoing software changes to cater for the expanded booking window associated with the additional NDLS appointment slots. The introduction of these steps may help ease some of the pressure on the NDLS, free up appointment slots and make it easier to find those slots at local centres.

Applications can be made online to renew a driving licence or learner permit if no supporting documents are required with the application. The current driving licence online application system does not facilitate the uploading of such supporting documentation. The RSA is continuing work 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 if a reply has not been received within 10 days. I would also advise the Deputy to advise the person concerned to contact his insurance provider, as a number of insurance providers have indicated that the expiry of a person's driving licence may not necessarily invalidate their insurance, depending on circumstances.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51
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