Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

I have some sympathy with the last speaker concerning the position in which many older people find themselves, especially as we have allowed a regime to continue where one never has to take a test. It is essential for everybody to sit a certain test to establish a minimum level of driving competency. After that, however, there is the potential for a graduated licensing system. We have been promised that but there has been no move on it yet. Other jurisdictions issue restricted licences whereby drivers cannot drive at certain times or beyond certain speeds and must adhere to horsepower limits. We need to consider such a system.

I have a certain amount of sympathy with older people who may not have any experience of using technology. I ask the Minister to look at the manner in which the theory test is administered. It is simple for most people. Young people like it because they can press the buttons without difficulty but it is terrifying for many older people. The Minister should consider introducing the option of a written theory test in a limited number of centres. Many drivers are put off by the theory test but they might be eased into the testing regime if the Minister could re-examine the written test option. The whole idea of having a graduated licensing system also has merit.

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