John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

There are many who find themselves in a similar position every day. The adoption of a more harmonised approach to speed limits by all local authorities and the Department would create circumstances in which more commonsensical speed limits were applied.

We have seen legislation which is considered by many to make the way clear for the privatisation of driver testing in future. While I am not against the idea of privatisation in the sector, a significant overhaul of the test itself is required. The test does not address the overtaking of another vehicle, which is the most dangerous manoeuvre one can attempt in a car but incorporates reversing around a junction, which is illegal. The test is archaic. I urge the Minister to harmonise speed limits and ensure the test is more relevant to the circumstances drivers encounter on today's roads.