David Stanton
Ceist:266. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Transport when a Ukrainian national (details supplied) will be issued with an Irish driver's licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41020/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 26 July 2022
Ceisteanna (266)
Freagraí scríofa
All inquires relating to driver licensing are handled by the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) the provision of which I have delegated to the Road Safety Authority under the relevant legislation. My Department does not have access to individual applications. Individuals should contact the NDLS in the first instance for queries in relation to applications.
My Department has acted quickly to aid Ukrainians arriving in Ireland under the Temporary Protection Direction to drive on Irish roads. In April, by Government Order, we introduced the option for Ukrainians to exchange their licence for an Irish car licence valid for 12 months. Furthermore, following a suggestion from Ireland, the European Commission has recently brought forward a proposal to allow Ukrainians residing in Ireland and the European Union under the Temporary Protection Directive to retain their current national driving licences. Once approved and entered into force, this regulation will exempt them from having to exchange for an EU licence. This measure will apply to all licence types.