Crackdown on learners who keep failing
LEARNER drivers who keep failing their tests are to be banned from the roads in a new safety crackdown .
Transport Minister Jack Chambers confirmed the Government was dealing with the controversial issue.
There have been cases where people had learner licences renewed after failing their test up to 10 times.
Mr Chambers said: “The issue of multiple successive learner permits is a road safety priority for me.
“My Department is committed to changing the permit renewal system to prevent unlimited renewals, increasing driver testing capacity for timely access to practical tests, reviewing driver training and the training curriculum to better prepare candidates for the driving tests.
BACKLOG
“Preparatory work has begun. My officials have agreed an approach with the Road Safety Authority to address learner permit renewal while the RSA is increasing testing capacity. I understand driver training is under review.”
The Minister confirmed the Transport Department has begun an assessment of the legislative requirements and an internal RSA working group is scoping technological and administrative changes required.
He added: “It is expected that implementation of this proposal will proceed when the driver test backlog is resolved.
“It will include lead-in time for people who will be affected to make arrangements to comply with the new requirements.”
The Minister was responding to written Dail questions from Sinn Fein transport spokesman Martin Kenny TD.
Mr Kenny has demanded urgent government action to stop the “epidemic” of deaths on our roads with 58 people killed in road accidents in the first three months of this year.
Sinn Fein want restrictions on learner drivers who keep failing tests and more gardai on the roads.