Written Answers. - Driving Tests. Tuesday, 14 October 2003

Dáil Eireann Debate Vol. 572 No. 3 Page of 355

  75.  Mr. Kenny      asked the Minister for Transport      the plans he has to address the driving test back log; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23067/03]

  113.  Mr. P. McGrath      asked the Minister for Transport      the current pass rate of the driving test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23042/03]

  142.  Ms McManus      asked the Minister for Transport      the total number of applicants awaiting driving tests at the latest date for which figures are available; the average waiting time; the progress made to date in his discussions with the Department of Finance on a package of measures to address the backlog of driving test applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23123/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan):    I propose to take Questions Nos. 75, 113 and 142 together.

The total number of applicants awaiting a driving test as at 10 October 2003 is 127,781. The current average waiting time nationally for a driving test is 22.7 weeks. The pass rate, as at end June 2003, is 55.2%. In order to deal with the increased level of demand for driving tests, my Department has recruited eight retired driver testers who have commenced testing with effect from 13 October. In addition, a bonus scheme for driver testers was introduced in June 2003. Driver testers continue to deliver additional tests by working overtime on Saturdays and at lunchtime.

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Last Updated: 10/09/2010 07:41:09

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