Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I encourage the RSA to implement a fast track mechanism for cases of students such as this individual. It is quite a unique situation. A student who is going to study business or arts does not need a driving licence. It might be desirable and something that their family wants for them, but it is not essential. It is a requirement for someone who wants to undertake a course to become a paramedic. That sets them quite apart from other students. We all want to see young people get their driving licences but this situation sets these students apart from others in their age cohort.

The next issue I wish to raise it that of BE licences, which are required for towing dual-axis trailers. Many people in rural Ireland, for example, farmers towing cow or horseboxes, use and require such licences. A farmer from County Clare recently told me that when his licence came up for renewal, he submitted all the paperwork. Lo and behold, when he got back his licence, the capacity to tow a trailer had been removed from it. He went to the ends of the earth in trying to get an answer, and was told that there is a minuscule box on the form asking the licence holder if he or she wishes to keep their trailer licence on renewal of the driving licence. That goes against the whole spirit of licence renewal. The whole idea of renewing a licence is that the holder of a licence running close to its expiry date applies for it to be renewed and extended. There are a number of cases, but not many, such as that to which I referred. Those who have lost their BE licences in such circumstances, should have them reinstated immediately. It is most unfair on farmers, and those in rural Ireland, in particular. I ask Mr. Naughton to respond.