Michael Collins (Cork South-West, Independent Ireland Party)

I thank the Tánaiste very much for his reply. I ask the Government to get rid of the ten-year limit on Irish licences for returning emigrants.

These are people who passed a test in Ireland, held an Irish licence and currently have a valid driving licence. To now deny them a licence is arbitrary, unjust and indefensible. This is a slap in the face to Irish citizens returning home. This is not how we should be treating our people.

It has zero impact on road safety. This straightforward action would immediately support the Irish diaspora and returning Irish citizens. The ten-year-old limit is not required under either Irish law or EU law.

It is in the programme for Government to resolve that, so the Government has discussed this around the table. Last week I sent this correspondence to the Minister of State, Deputy Seán Canney, and he forwarded it to the NDLS. That is kicking the can down the road. We cannot kick the can down the road on this issue. It is hugely important that we deal with that issue immediately. As far as I am concerned, the senior Minister could amend this requirement tomorrow with the stroke of a pen. Can that happen?

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