Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 8: To ask the Minister for Transport the new technical checks that have been introduced as part of the driving test; the reason these technical checks were introduced; if he plans to introduce further reforms of the driving test procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9683/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The technical checks, which have formed part of the driving test with effect from 14 February 2005, were introduced to meet our obligations under EU Directive 2000/56/EC on driver licensing. The technical checks involve candidates being asked to explain how he or she might carry out three out of a number of checks on the vehicle. If, for example, a person is asked to show how oil levels should be checked, it will be necessary to open the bonnet, point to the oil dipstick and explain how oil levels should be checked. A test candidate will not have to carry out the procedure but should know how to do so.

Additional technical checks relating principally to trucks and buses will be introduced when suitable off-road compounds become available at selected test centres throughout the country. The Office of Public Works, in consultation with my Department, is in the process of providing such compounds.

In tandem with the introduction of technical checks, the motorcycle driving test has been enhanced by the use of a radio link between the driver tester and candidate. This will allow for a better test experience. While the content of the driving test is kept under review, no further reforms of the driving test procedure are envisaged at present.

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Is the Minister saying Ireland is now fully in compliance with EU guidelines in this regard?

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Yes.

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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I thank the Minister for his reply.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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While we have more technical checks as part of the driving test, is this slowing down the process as a result? Will the waiting list for driving tests become longer? If so, will the Department of Transport employ more testers in future to compensate for that?

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I am concerned to ensure that the driving test backlog is cleared. Where jobs might be at stake, especially for young people, it is important for them to be able to take their driving tests as quickly and efficiently as possible. The additional checks are good for safety and are helpful in engendering an understanding of vehicles but they will not necessarily slow down the testing process. Driver testing legislation is going through the House which will bring about positive changes for those seeking tests in future.