Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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145. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the up-to-date position regarding the recognition of HGV licences issued in Ukraine, Argentina and North Macedonia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44720/22]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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Under European Union Regulation (EU) 2022/1280, which came into force on 27 July, Ukrainians residing in Ireland under the Temporary Protection Directive may drive here on their national driving licences. All categories on the holder's Ukrainian licence are recognised. The Regulation applies to driver documents held by Ukrainians admitted to the EU under the Temporary Protection Directive and for the period of temporary protection only.

A person with C or D categories on their licence (trucks and buses) must have a driver certificate of professional competence (CPC) to drive a truck or bus professionally in Ireland. The EU Regulation allows for the recognition of Ukrainian CPCs, subject to the holder undergoing additional compulsory training. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is in the process of developing this programme of additional compulsory training. Legislative and system changes will be required, along with liaison with stakeholders such as driving instructors and CPC training providers. The RSA and my department are working to have these processes in place as soon as possible. The RSA website will be updated with details of the training required once all arrangements are finalised.

The RSA is continuing the evaluation of the driving licence regimes in Argentina and North Macedonia, with a view to considering a driving licence exchange with these countries. The North Macedonian review is nearing completion and a recommendation from the RSA is expected shortly.

If a category C (truck) licence from Argentina or North Macedonia is recognised for exchange for an Irish licence under an exchange agreement, a driver will need to obtain the CPC qualification before driving professionally here.