John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

68. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of driver licence applications and renewals that are currently awaiting processing; the average wait time by county in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9146/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Specific details on the number of persons awaiting licences or renewals and average wait times are held by the Road Safety Authority.

I am therefore passing the Deputy's question to the Road Safety Authority for direct reply. If a reply has not been received within 10 working days, the Deputy should contact my office.

Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

69. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address the case of a person (details supplied) regarding a driver licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9164/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As per the EU Directives on driving licensing, a person cannot hold more than one driving licence. A person normally resident in Ireland must have an Irish or EU licence to drive here. Normal residence means the place where a person usually lives, that is for at least 185 days in each calendar year, because of personal and occupational ties.

It is not possible to issue a dual licence. Ireland can only issue a driving licence for an Irish resident, and not for another jurisdiction. EU driving licences are mutually recognised; a person can continue to drive on an EU licence when they come to reside in Ireland but must apply for an Irish licence when the original licence expires. As the UK is no longer a Member State, a UK licence is no longer recognised for driving in Ireland.

With regard to motor insurance, my Department does not have the power to direct insurance companies on insurance products, as insurance companies are private companies. The provision of insurance cover and the price at which it is offered is a commercial matter for insurance companies.