Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent)
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336. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding an R plate for drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33210/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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It must be understood that a learner permit is not a licence, but a permit to allow a person to drive on the roads while learning. The purpose of the driving test is to set out the minimum level of knowledge, skill and competency that a learner must demonstrate in order to become a fully licensed driver. Until a learner can meet this standard and pass this test, they are not safe to take to our roads without appropriate supervision.

I would also like to point out that the current pass rate for driving tests nationally stands at 52% for 2019, so having fulfilled all of the driving lesson requirements does not mean that an individual meets the standard required to pass the test.

Studies have repeatedly shown that unaccompanied learner drivers are markedly more likely to be involved in fatal collisions. For that reason, there can be no exceptions to the current laws in force around learner drivers. Regrettably, there has been an increase in fatalities on our roads so far in 2020, and we must not relax the standards required of our drivers before being awarded a driving licence, even in the case of frontline workers, whose lives and safety are so precious at this time.

Under Covid19 Level 5 Government restrictions effective from midnight on Wednesday 21 October, forsix weeks, driving tests are being provided for essential workers.

While I regret the inconvenience caused, public safety is of paramount importance. My officials and I are working hard to ensure that the system returns to normal as soon as possible to allow learner drivers complete their training and, hopefully, pass their test.