Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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194. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to resolve the situation in which the RSA will not allow fully licensed accompanying drivers of learners to their tests to wait in the test centre while the test is being conducted (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36192/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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While it is case that a learner driver must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver at all times, I would like to make clear that there is no requirement in law for this driver to remain at the test centre for the duration of the test.

As the Deputy is aware, driver testing is continuing under current Level 5 restrictions, but only for candidates involved in the provision of essential services or essential retail outlets. The Road Safety Authority has thus been presented with the challenge of facilitating these essential tests while at the same time safeguarding the safety of its staff and those taking the test while minimizing the risk of spreading the virus.

Operational arrangements at test centres, including the availability of waiting facilities, are a matter for the Road Safety Authority. I understand from the Authority that, given the rise in confirmed cases of Covid-19 across the country and the general tightening of public health restrictions more generally, the current policy of closing waiting rooms at centres where they exist, is unlikely to be relaxed in the near future.

Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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195. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a driver test will be expedited for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36212/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The scheduling of candidates’ driving tests is the responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and as Minister, I have no power to intervene in individual cases.

During the Level 5 period, driving tests will be available only to those who are involved in essential services, including essential retail work. The RSA have set up a dedicated email, , where applicants can request to be given priority and supply supporting documentation.

These requests are prioritised during the scheduling process with cancellation slots being offered where possible.