Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

The initial proposal by the Minister for Transport regarding learner drivers was a frightful gaffe, which was bereft of common sense. He subsequently decided to defer implementation until 30 June on the basis of the input of the driver testing industry but there is no way more than 425,000 provisional licence holders will be dealt with by then. Like Senator Fitzgerald, I call on the Leader for a debate on this important subject. I would like the Minister to give a guarantee but he may have to revisit his proposal because he will unable to give one.

On the subject of pensions, it behoves us all to strive to ensure a level playing pitch for all conscientious State servants in whatever category.