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Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2021

Tuesday, 2 November 2021

Ceisteanna (212)

Seán Canney

Ceist:

212. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that at least 40 trained driving instructors working in driving test centres are at risk of being let go as their contracts may not be renewed as they do not have permanent employment and this will put pressure on the entire testing system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52944/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

In order to deal with the backlog in driving tests created by Covid, the RSA received approval in 2020 to rehire 36 temporary testers. In addition, the RSA received sanction to hire 40 additional testers on a temporary basis to assist with the backlogs. These new testers have completed their training and are now conducting live tests since July 2021. Sanction has also been granted to recruit a further 40 testers.

Procedures require approval for hiring of staff from my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, and we have responded to the needs of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) by giving the approvals mentioned.

However, the RSA is the employer of driver testers, not the Department. Specific contractual terms are a matter for the RSA.

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