Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)

First, in terms of driver theory but, more broadly, road safety, it is something we really have to focus in on for transition year. Last October, there was collaboration between my Department and the Road Safety Authority, RSA, where they developed a specific programme, Road Safety Matters. It was launched to help students become safer road users. The programme, which has been developed by the RSA, is also supported by An Garda Síochána and officially sponsored by Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances. This is specifically for transition year students. It is specifically acknowledging that there is maybe greater flexibility in the time available to support students in understanding the rules of the road but, most importantly, making sure they are safe drivers when they go about their theory test and when they start to drive. They learn the importance of sharing the road, developing the knowledge and skills and values and qualities to prepare them as road users as well. In the past year or so, while we have made significant progress in reducing the number of road deaths, we have started to see an incline in the other way. The earlier we can engage with young people to make sure they are use roads safely, the better.

More broadly, on the issues the Deputy raised around the life skills, we have a real opportunity now that nearly every student is able to avail of transition year to make sure they are learning real practical skills. The review that I have mentioned will, hopefully, identify where that is happening.

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