Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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286. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the progress in negotiations to introduce an exchange programme for Irish driving licence holders with Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36293/14]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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The Road Safety Authority (RSA), which takes responsibility for the negotiation of mutual recognition of driving licences with other jurisdictions, has been engaged for some time with the Canadian provinces with the assistance of the Irish Embassy in Ottawa.It was decided to prioritise negotiations with Ontario due to the large number of Irish living there. 

Reaching an agreement is not a straightforward process. It involves the licensing authorities in both jurisdictions closely comparing the two systems to be sure that they are compatible. 

As you may be aware, an agreement to allow for the mutual exchange of driving licences between Ireland and Ontario was concluded recently.  This was the first such agreement between Ireland and any of the Canadian provinces, and I believe the fact that it has been reached should help to expedite progress with the other provinces. 

I understand from the RSA that they have made very substantial progress with Newfoundland & Labrador and I hope to see an agreement in place shortly.