Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 2:

In page 7, between lines 13 and 14, to insert the following:

"5.—(1) The Authority shall, in the exercise of its functions as prescribed by section 4(1) of this Act, be responsible for setting training standards and ensuring quality control of driving instructors.

(2) Without prejudice to subsection (3) of this section, the Authority shall assume such functions in respect of driving instructors as are conferred on the Minister by, and in accordance with, the Road Traffic Acts 1961 to 2004.

(3) The Authority shall put in place such structures as it deems necessary to regulate driving instruction and driving schools, and shall maintain a register of those who are qualified to give certifiable driving lessons.

(4) Driving instructors shall be obliged to undergo regular quality control testing and retraining at such intervals as may be prescribed by the Authority.".

This amendment was debated thoroughly on Committee Stage. It proposes the regulation of driving instructors, because there is a lack of regulation at present. Any person can set up as a driving instructor and a person does not even have to own a car. They do not need to have passed any tests. No education is involved and something urgent needs to be done. Ongoing educational facilities need to be put in place.