Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Other speakers have spoken about the impact of the waiting time for a driver theory test. When I worked with young unemployed people in Wexford, Wicklow and across the south east, I noted that being able to drive really made the difference between getting work and not getting work. In many cases, it was almost impossible to gain employment if one could not demonstrate that one could drive. I am very much aware of the benefit of being able to drive.

I wish to highlight two slightly related issues, one of which concerns the driver theory test, which is currently delivered by a private company based in America and working internationally. In the discussions we have had in this House on rural post offices, it was asked why we do not seek to ensure rural post offices could be hubs for things such as the driver theory test. In designing requests for tenders, we should recognise the benefits of locating multiple services that are needed in rural communities in central hubs such as post offices.

As of 17 June this year, those seeking to take the driver theory test are required to have a public services card. Given that the Data Commissioner has indicated her dissatisfaction with the arrangements in place regarding the public services card, and having received replies from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, she has now indicated her intention to launch an investigation into how the card has been rolled out, the protections that are in place, or not in place, and how it is being managed. Will the Minister consider removing, or suspending, the requirement for a public services card for those seeking to do the driver theory test? It represents an extra level of bureaucracy for those involved. It is an instrument over which there is a major question mark at present. It is not appropriate to continue pushing people to take up the card while it is under investigation. From May 2018, new European directives on data protection will be in place. They will provide a much more appropriate and safe environment for the rolling out of any of these measures. Will the Minister consider removing or suspending the requirement related to the driver theory test?