Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022

Tuesday, 14 June 2022

Ceisteanna (312)

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

312. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport the steps that he is taking to reduce the waiting list for motorbike practical tests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30436/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is responsible for the operation of motorcycle tests.

Due to Covid 19 and resulting lockdowns, testing services were suspended or curtailed for periods throughout 2020 and 2021. This resulted in significant backlogs developing.

When restrictions permitted, the RSA and their contractors worked hard to deliver these services safely, and to reduce the backlogs and restore waiting times to pre-pandemic levels.

To meet the demand for tests, approval has been given to significantly increase the capacity of the service through the recruitment and extension of a number of existing driver tester contracts. This, and the introduction of a new booking system for tests, have had a noticeable impact on reducing Covid waiting list backlogs.

Question No. 313 answered with Question No. 125.