Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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686. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when driver tests, driving lessons, NCT, NDLS and theory test services will resume under the revised Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13003/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I am happy to be able to remind the Deputy that the NCT, NDLS, and driver theory test all resumed service on a phased basis as of 8 June. 

The NCT is undergoing a phased reopening after the recent CoVID-19 (Coronavirus) crisis.  15 NCTS centres reopened on June 8th, with the remaining centres opening in phases in line with the Government's Roadmap.  It is anticipated that all test centres will be operating by July 20th.

Both the driver licence centres and driver theory test centres have reopened, with clients being seen by appointment only, and operating to strict guidelines. 

Driving lessons are expected to open after 29th June, as detailed in the revised Roadmap to which the Deputy refers.  Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) have been advised by the RSA of their plans for resuming driving tests, including the protocols for driving tests.  As private enterprises it is a matter for them to satisfy themselves that they have implemented protocols to ensure that they are operating within guidelines to safeguard themselves, their employees and their customers.  These businesses are subject to inspection by the Health and Safety Authority. 

The resumption of car driver testing raises particular problems in terms of compliance with the Protocol and in particular social distancing rules, as it requires the driver tester and the candidate to be within a two metre distance continuously for a period in excess of 20 minutes, in a very confined space which is not in itself a workplace under the control of the RSA.

I am happy therefore to be able to tell the Deputy that driver testing for trucks, buses and motorbikes is beginning again as of today.  This will be done on a phased basis.  It is planned to resume car driving tests, and also tests for category C1 (vans) and D1 (minibuses) on a phased basis in July.

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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687. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a query previously submitted to his Department and to the Covid-19 query line will be responded to (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13007/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I am acutely aware how critical the work of the supply chain is during the COVID-19 pandemic and that every element of it is a vital link in ensuring a continuous flow of essential goods.  However, the issue you have raised regarding Certificates of Fitness to Resume Work  following periods of absence is an employee relations matter and not a matter for to my Department. 

The Return to Work Safely Protocol is designed to support employers and workers to put measures in place that will prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. A link to the protocol is available here:

In response to the COVID-19 restrictions introduced by the Government on 27 March 2020, I am pleased to tell you that Regulations were signed which extend the period of validity for all driving licences due to expire between March and June for a further four months. No action is required of licence holders whose licences had been due to expire within this time period. 

The safety of the public is of paramount importance at this time and as in all aspects of the COVID-19 crisis my Department continues to be guided by the National Public Health Emergency Team and the relevant national experts in relation to the resumption of services.

I am pleased to confirm the phased re-opening of the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centres from 8 June 2020, in line with Phase 2 of the Government roadmap for the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the national Return To Work Safety Protocol.

The operation of the NDLS Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. Further information is available at www.ndls.ieand www.rsa.ie.