Laois representative wants driving test measures accelerated

The approved recruitment of driving testers is progress in tackling the long wait learner drivers in Laois are experiencing, according to Sinn Féin TD in Laois and Offaly.

Dep Brian Stanley outlined the latest update he has received on shortening waiting times.

"The most recent reply I received from Minister Jack Chambers, outlines that additional driving testers have been recruited into the system and that the overall number has increased by 41, bringing the total number to 205 in the State. Sanction has been given to the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to increase these numbers to alleviate any further pressures in the coming months.

“The Minister states that his Department is working closely with the RSA to monitor demand and to ensure that the RSA meet the agreed service level agreement average waiting time of 10 weeks. The RSA are expected to achieve this by the middle of this year, and it is important that this happens as the waiting times in Laois / Offaly area are excessive. Many drivers that have applied in Birr and Portlaoise centres for a test are waiting periods of in excess of six months.

"This is causing problems for young drivers and workers in rural areas and people who depend on their car for their livelihood. I will continue to raise this issue until the average of a 10-week wait is achieved,’’ he said.

Dep Stanley said he has raised the issue with the Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.