Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 319: To ask the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 550 of 12 April 2005, when resources will be sanctioned to allow for the urgent and essential recruitment of driver testers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14301/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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My Department's discussions with the Department of Finance about a package of measures to reduce waiting times at all test centres are at an advanced stage. The measures include the recruitment of additional driver testers as well as increased productivity. I expect that my Department will be in a position to proceed with these measures at an early date.

John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 321: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will consider introducing mandatory approved training courses and statutory registration for all driving instructors; the likely cost to the Exchequer of such initiatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14311/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Proposals being developed by my Department for the regulation and quality assurance of driving instruction will involve a test of the competence of individual instructors. A working group comprising representatives of my Department and of instruction interests has formulated the design of the standards that a driving instructor must meet.

I am considering what arrangements will be put in place to oversee implementation of the standard in the context of the establishment of the driver testing and standards authority. The Driver Testing and Standards Authority Bill 2004 is at Second Stage. It is not possible at this stage to determine the likely cost to the Exchequer, if any.