Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is satisfied with the current licensing criteria which allows learner drivers to drive a vehicle on the public road for the first time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44951/12]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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The process has begun of introducing a Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS) for Ireland, which is a stepped approach to driver learning which focuses on the acquisition of skills and experience rather than simply passing a test.  There are nine components to this System, including for example compulsory lessons for learners, lower blood alcohol limits, and a new category of novice driver for those recently qualified for a full licence.  Some have already been brought into force, and the others will follow.

The nine measures in question were chosen as being the most appropriate for an Irish context following extensive study and consultation by the Road Safety Authority.  The option of asking learner car drivers to undertake some form of lessons or experience before going on the road was not chosen as part of the system, although such rules do now apply, as part of GDLS, for learner motorcyclists.

In my view, GDLS is a major step forward in the driver learning process and has the potential to make an important contribution to safety on our roads. I remain open however to consider in future whether the measures amounting to GDLS need to be extended or enhanced in the light of experience.