Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

A number of driving instructors have begun a campaign to allow essential driving tests, EDTs, to continue during the extended level 5 restrictions. We know how long that will go on for. They are also trying to set up their own union. Currently only essential workers who have been allocated driving tests are allowed to do the pre-test lessons. Surely if it is safe for one cohort of essential workers to do their lessons, it should be safe for them all, including the compulsory 12 EDT lessons. Another group of non-essential workers is awaiting tests and EDT lessons, and a further group is awaiting theory tests and driver licences. Will the Government consider changing the legislation to allow for EDTs and normal driving lessons to resume for essential workers? There will be an enormous backlog - there already is - at the end of the pandemic and these driving instructors need to be supported.

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