Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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142. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the consultation with driving instructors that has taken place with the view to restarting driver tests; if he is satisfied appropriate guidelines will be in place to resume testing and lessons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14955/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The RSA has been 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 Safely Protocol as agreed by employer and trade union representatives.

On Monday 29 June, driving tests resumed on a gradual basis for trucks, buses and motorcycles . Driving test for cars, vans and minibuses are expected to commence on a phased basis this week and the RSA will prioritise tests for essential workers in the first instance. The resumption of services is dependent on strict protocols being in place for staff and customers in order to comply with public health guidelines.

The RSA wrote to Approved Driving Instructors on 22 June, informing them of the imminent resumption of driver testing and is in regular communication with this sector. The Authority included a series of Frequently Asked Questions, which provided details of the protocols being applied to driver testing in order to comply with health requirements in line with Government's Protocol on Returning to Work Safely. These protocols may assist driving instructors in taking the necessary measures resuming their business safely.

The RSA cannot dictate to driving schools on how they should run their business, or issue medical advice. Approved Driving Instructors are independent contractors and have personal responsibility to follow the Government Protocols. It is up to each driving instructor or driving school to protect themselves, their families and communities by adhering to the official Government guidelines on hygiene and social distancing.

While the RSA is responsible for driver testing and took the original decision to close the driver testing service during the pandemic, the RSA has no authority to order a suspension or resumption of driving instruction. This is done by driving instructors and schools in light of national policy and taking into account their own personal circumstances.

I understand that any company 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.