Danny Healy-Rae
Ceist:374. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport his plans to ensure the backlog for driver tests is cleared (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33899/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 3 November 2020
Ceisteanna (374, 375)
Danny Healy-Rae
Ceist:375. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport the process in place to prioritise driver tests for frontline workers that urgently need to obtain a driver licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33900/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 and 375 together.
As you are aware, tests were temporarily suspended due to the Covid 19 emergency and since resuming operations, there has been an increased level of demand. Unfortunately, due to social distancing requirements, normal capacity has been considerably reduced and this means that customers will experience longer waiting times for a test than was the case before the service was suspended. The need to return to Level 5 restrictions from 22 October to 1 December 2020 for reasons of public health will inevitably impact further on delays to driver testing. During the Level 5 period, driving tests will be available only to those who are involved in essential services, including essential retail work.
While the service is limited during Level 5 restrictions, the Road Safety Authority is examining ways of increasing the number of tests within health constraints with an eye to resuming wider testing after Level 5, and is working in close consultation with my Department on this matter. This includes increasing the number of testing staff to help reduce and, over time, eliminate the backlog.
The Department has approved the retention by the RSA of 18 temporary driver testers whose contracts were due to expire in October and November, and the RSA has also rehired a further 19 temporary testers whose contracts expired in May. This will help to increase testing capacity. In the longer term the Department is considering proposals by the RSA for further measures to address the backlog.
The Road Safety Authority has advised it is prioritising driver testing for essential workers and has set up a dedicated email, urgentdrivingtest@rsa.ie, where applicants can request to be given priority and supply supporting documentation. These requests are prioritised during the scheduling process with cancellation slots being offered where possible.
While I regret the inconvenience caused, public safety is of paramount importance. My officials and I are working hard to ensure the resumption of services as soon as Level 5 is lifted.
Question No. 376 answered with Question No. 372.
Question No. 377 answered with Question No. 284.