Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 506: To ask the Minister for Transport his plans to change the driver's licence; the plans in his Department to change this into a plastic type card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10530/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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In June 2003 a notice requesting the submission of tenders to supply a plastic card licence was published in the EU Official Journal. A number of developments took place following receipt of tenders and the proposals were reviewed in the light of these developments. These developments included developments concerning anti-fraud protection measures, possible developments in e-government and the publication of a draft EU directive on driving licences in October 2003 proposing the issuing of new licences in plastic card format only and allowing the introduction of an optional microchip on the driving licence. Having considered these matters it was decided not to proceed with the tender invitation of 16 June 2003. The EU directive and the specification of a microchip have not yet been agreed. The overall proposal is being reviewed to take account of these developments.

Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 507: To ask the Minister for Transport the number of national car tests carried out at each test centre each month during 2005; the number of old age pensioners who owned a car tested in each month during 2005; his views on waiving the car test fee for old age pensioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10631/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Data on test activity for individual test centres are not compiled by my Department but would be available from National Car Testing Service Limited. Information on the ages of car owners whose vehicles underwent the NCT is not compiled. I have no plans to waive the NCT fee for old age pensioners.