Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
300. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport the status of his plans to clear the backlog of driver tests once level 5 restrictions are lifted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18231/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is liaising with the RSA on an ongoing basis to help the service meet the growing demand for tests within the current public health situation. An additional 40 driver testers have been authorised by the Minister along with 36 approved for retention or rehire in 2020. Recruitment has commenced and a panel has been formed, which will permit additional numbers to be recruited expeditiously if required. Once selected, newly hired testers will require 7 weeks of training in order to be ready. It is expected new testers will be available in June 2021..
The RSA are also looking at a number of other measures, including whether the number of tests a driver tester can perform each day can be increased. Any decision on this matter will be guided by health protocols.
Until Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions have been eased, no progress can be made on addressing the backlog; however, the Road Safety Authority has plans in place for when the service is allowed to resume for all learner permit holders to be tested at the earliest possible date, and a gradual return of driving test times to their pre-Covid levels.
