Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I will certainly bring back and communicate those points. Senator Byrne can be assured that the Department of Transport is aware of the challenges facing the RSA as it works hard to manage further the backlog in the driver testing service. While the service was limited during level 5 restrictions, the RSA is examining ways of increasing the number of tests, within the health constraints, with the aim of resuming wider testing after level 5. It is working in close consultation with the Department on this matter. This includes increasing the number of testing staff to help to reduce and, over time, eliminate the backlog.

I reiterate that the Department of Transport has already given approval for the RSA to retain 18 driver testers on temporary contracts which were due to expire in October. The RSA has already rehired a further 18 temporary testers whose contracts expired in May. This will help to increase testing capacity. The RSA is now prioritising driver testing for essential workers and has set up a dedicated form on its website, . This form will allow customers to assess whether they qualify for an urgent test appointment, and, if so, to submit an application. If an application is accepted, the applicant will be placed on a short notice list.

It has been clear from the start that the priority must be public safety. We want to provide services, and we know people are seeking those services, including the driver test, but only limited possibilities will be available while preserving public health. The priority of the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, is to see that the RSA is able to deliver its services to the public as much as possible, while doing so safely. We are all in the grip of this pandemic. People are frustrated, but I ask that we try to work our way through this situation. As I said, however, I will take these comments back to the Minister of State.