Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 259: To ask the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a situation in Ballina, County Mayo where driving tests, which are only held every second week due to a lack of testers, have been cancelled for the foreseeable future due to the installation of the sewerage scheme; the alternatives which are available to the people of Ballina and surrounding areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13950/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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It is regrettable that driving tests cannot be conducted in the town of Ballina at present. I am informed this is due to streets being closed off in the centre of the town for the installation of a sewerage scheme. The work has affected all driving test routes. My officials have been in regular contact with both Mayo County Council and the supervisory tester is assessing the situation with a view to finding a suitable alternative route. The priority is to find alternative test routes at the earliest opportunity. A senior official of my Department will meet with the supervisory tester in Ballina on Monday next to see how we can advance a solution to this issue. In the meantime, arrangements can be made for any applicant who needs an urgent test date to be tested in Castlebar, Sligo or any other centre of his or her choice.