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Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 October 2020

Wednesday, 21 October 2020

Ceisteanna (35)

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

35. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Transport the waiting time for a first driver test by centre; the measures he is taking to address the delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31799/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Specific details on the number of persons awaiting a driver test  at each centre is held by the Road Safety Authority.  I have therefore referred this part of 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.

My Department is remaining in close contact with the RSA who are examining ways of increasing the number of tests within the current health constraints. I am pleased to say, my Department has already given approval to the RSA to retain 18 driver testers on  temporary contracts due to expire in October and November, and to rehire up to 19 testers whose contracts expired in May. The authority is also examining the recruitment and training of new driver testers. However, I would  like to stress that many of the issues impacting on the delivery of service are concerned with the throughput of centres themselves in light of the restrictions, rather than on the availability of staff. 

The RSA are also looking at a number of other measures, including whether the number of tests a driver tester can perform each day can be increased and scheduling additional overtime tests, including testing on Saturdays to increase capacity.

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

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