Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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589. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address a matter regarding driver tests and the reopening of the NDLS (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10312/20]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The RSA is currently working, in consultation with my Department, on plans for the resumption of the range of services and functions for which it is responsible, following the publication of the Government roadmap and, more recently, the National Return to Work Safety Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.

I am pleased to confirm the phased re-opening of the NDLS service as part of Phase 2 under the Government Roadmap, from Monday 8 June. Further information is available on the relevant websites www.ndls.ie and www.rsa.ie

The resumption of driving tests raises particular difficulties, due to the need to have two people in close proximity and in a confined space for a significant period of time. I anticipate for this reason that the driving test will be the last of the RSA's services to reopen, most likely in phase 4 of the Government's Roadmap.

Further dates for the resumption of the RSA's services, and any special arrangements which will need to be put into place to allow for the provision of these services, will be determined in consultation with the relevant health authorities.

The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time, whether from infection or from deaths and injuries on the road, and in this as in all aspects of the Covid-19 crisis, my Department will be guided by NPHET and national experts.