Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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696. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when guidance will be available for driving instructors on a safe return to work; when driver tests will resume; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13107/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Last week, the RSA updated Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) in relation to their plans for resuming driver testing services in line with the revised Government Roadmap for Reopening, including a series of Frequently Asked Questions for ADIs and also details of the protocols being followed for driving tests.  

However, it must be noted that, as a private business, driving instructors must ensure that they can comply with the necessary public health requirements before they can reopen their businesses.  Furthermore, those which are employers should ensure that they fully comply with their legal responsibilities under Health and Safety codes.  In all case, the National Return to Work Safely Protocol agreed by employers and worker representatives should be followed.

I understand that any business which reopens is subject to inspection by Health and Safety Authority, and may face serious sanctions, including closure, if found to be not in compliance with Covid-19 requirements. 

In line with Phase 3 of the Government Roadmap, driver testing for trucks, buses and motorcycles resumed on a phased basis from 29 June, with testing for cars, vans and minibus due to resume in July before Phase 4 commences on 20 July.  Final dates for service resumption remain under discussion and are dependent on continued positive progression of the country against the overall Government roadmap.