Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chairman. The RSA is examining ways of increasing the number of tests within the current health constraints, and it is working in close consultation with my Department on the matter. It needs to be understood, however, that there are no easy solutions, unfortunately. I have been trying to find easy solutions but, unfortunately, it is just not possible with the restrictions. The RSA is looking at increasing the number of tests per day to seven, and it is in discussions with testers on this. It will be possible only if the safety of testers and candidates can be ensured. The RSA is also considering longer opening hours, additional time on weekdays, Saturday openings and an increase in the number of testers. As the Chairman will probably know, I gave sanction to hire 40 additional driving testers along with the 36 approved for retention-----