Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 841: To ask the Minister for Transport the reason the driver tester is not permitted to discuss the details of the test with the applicant at the end of the process in relation to the current driving test process in order that the applicant who fails the test can fully understand their mistakes. [40185/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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My Department is considering the introduction of a short verbal debrief to test candidates who request it at the end if their test. This short verbal feedback would refer to the type of fault that was incurred or to where it occurred on the route. Training has already been provided to the driver testers to deliver this feedback and its introduction is subject to negotiations with the testers' union, and will also be influenced by a reduction in the present backlog of tests.

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 842: To ask the Minister for Transport the standards which are used to certify driver tester ability and competence and the way in which these standards are maintained through regular training. [40186/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Arrangements for the recruitment of driver testers are principally the responsibility of the Public Appointments Service. As part of the recruitment process candidates for the position of driver tester are obliged to undertake a psychometric test, undergo a practical driving test and interview which assesses their suitability for the position. The driving test in Ireland is designed in accordance with the requirements of the European Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences, which sets out the skills a driver must demonstrate during a driving test.

Following recruitment each driver tester undergoes a six week training course which covers all aspects of the driving test. The work of driver testers is monitored on an ongoing basis by supervisory driver testers to ensure that a uniform standard of test is maintained. There are procedures in place to ensure that further training is provided if difficulties in applying this standard are identified.

All driver testers underwent a comprehensive two week refresher training programme in 2002 which covered procedures for carrying out driving tests, guidelines for assessing driving faults and training to enhance customer service in the delivery of the driving test. The training course undertaken by recruit driver testers is currently under review.