Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent)
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120. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views around the challenges being experienced by unaccompanied learner drivers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53830/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that a learner permit is not a licence, but permission to drive on our 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.

The current pass rate for driving tests nationally stands at 52%, so having fulfilled the driving lesson requirements does not mean that an individual meets the standard required to pass the test.

An unaccompanied learner driver who is stopped by an Garda Síochána is liable to up to four penalty points, a fixed charge, seizure of the vehicle and possible prosecution. It should be noted that studies have repeatedly shown that unaccompanied learner drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in fatal collisions. Thus, for reasons of road safety, there can be no exceptions to the current laws in force around learner drivers.

Barry Heneghan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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121. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a disability impact assessment was carried out prior to the decision to remove Grade 1 faults; if such an assessment exists; if this will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53838/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service.

Given the RSA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct, detailed response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.