Mattie McGrath demands action on 92,576 driving test backlog
Mattie McGrath raised the driving test backlog in the Dáil, citing 92,576 people waiting and current waits of 25 to 30 weeks versus 19 weeks pre-COVID. He said rehiring 16 retired testers is welcome but called for radical measures and suggested recognising competent RSA lessons as interim proof of ability.
Backlog statistics
The deputy reported that 92,576 people are currently waiting for driving tests, with the present wait estimated at 25 to 30 weeks compared with about 19 weeks before the COVID pandemic.
Impact on people
He warned the delays are unfair on people - young people and older people - and said they prevent many from going to work, recreation and college. He singled out Rhode Island especially as a place where the backlog is a "huge impediment" to those affected.
Proposed interim measures
While welcoming the Minister's decision to rehire 16 retired testers, the deputy urged "radical and a seismetic action". He proposed that, especially in relation to RSA tests and the 12 lessons scheme, competent lessons could give candidates the authority to demonstrate they are proficient at driving while the backlog is addressed.
Government response
In reply the Taoiseach said he took the deputy's point and would pursue the matter with the Minister again to see if the process could be expedited, committing to follow up on the concerns raised.
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Teachta, I want to ask you about the driving test situation. Today there's 92,576 people waiting for driving tests. The current wait is 25 to 30 weeks and prior to COVID it was actually 19 weeks. This is not fair on people, young people and older people. And I understand from the Minister you're rehiring 16 retired testers. That's welcome. But we need a radical and a seismetic action here because back, you remember, back I think 79, I think Sylvie Barrett at the time, gave out licences because of the delays. They can't go to work, they can't go to recreation, they can't go to college, and Rhode Island especially, it's a huge impediment to them. And I'm suggesting now, especially with the RSA tests, with the 12 lessons, if lessons, competent lessons can give people the authority, you know, to say that they have done the lessons and they're proficient at driving, something must be done for this cohort. Thank you. Taoiseach. Taoiseach. Taoiseach, I take to Deputy's point and I will pursue the matter with the Minister again to see if we can expedite it.
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