Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 June 2021
67. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the measures he is putting in place to assist driver instructors with the cost of restarting their sector; if he has engaged with unions representing driver instructors on the challenges the sector is facing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32229/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraApproved driving instructors are not employed by my Department or the Road Safety Authority, but are independent private operators. The resumption of initial basic training for learner motorcyclists and the partial resumption of essential driver training on 10 May will generate increased custom, and therefore increased income, for instructors who had faced a downturn in business under previous public health restrictions.
To facilitate instructors in returning to work and meeting this increased demand, I signed regulations into law in early May, extending driver instructor licences issued between 1 September 2018 and 3 January 2021 for an additional 12 months.
As the second part of the Deputy's question is a matter for the Road Safety Authority, I have forwarded it to the Authority for direct response. I would ask that he contact my offices if no reply is received within 10 working days.
