Driver Test

Tuesday, 1 October 2024

Ceisteanna (82, 83)

Francis Noel Duffy

Ceist:

82. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Transport if a review has been undertaken on the decision to reduce essential driver training (EDT) to six hours instead of 12 hours, as instructors are reporting that students are not ready after six lessons; if he will consider allowing the instructor to assess the student and determine suitability for the reduced six EDT hours via the approved driving instructor portal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38676/24]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Francis Noel Duffy

Ceist:

83. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Transport if consideration can be given to liaising with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to undertake a review of the driving test, particularly elements like reverse parking, which is not used in day-to-day driving; if his Department will liaise with the RSA to instead introduce parallel and reverse parking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38677/24]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 83 together.

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the operation of the National Driver Testing Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). As part of the learning to drive process all learner drivers must complete 12 mandatory essential driver training (EDT) lessons, completed over twelve one hour sessions. In the case of an applicant with a full driver licence, from a non-EU country, that Ireland does not have a licence exchange agreement they must undertake six EDT lessons to be eligible to sit a driving test. Under the Government's Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, a current priority action is a review of the driver curriculum, which the RSA has commenced. This review is to ensure that the service is fit for purpose, future proofed and can cope with changes in vehicle technology. International best practice and research will be considered in order to produce recommendations on improving driver education in Ireland.