Dáil Éireann - Volume 511 - 30 November, 1999

Written Answers. - Driving Instructor Register.

Mr. Howlin Mr. Howlin

320. Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the position of the voluntary register of driving instructors; the number of instructors registered to date; the supports available from his Department for this project; his views on whether legislation is required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25149/99]

Mr. Molloy Mr. Molloy

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy): I understand that almost 600 driving instructors are currently enrolled under the voluntary driving instructor register – which has received financial support from my Department and the Irish Insurance Federation. In the context of the Government Strategy for Road Safety 1998-2002 my Department has provided additional financial assistance to the DIR which has enabled it to attain ISO 9002 certification. This quality certification should enhance confidence in, and recognition of, the DIR. The strategy for road safety also addressed the question of regulating private driving schools. It concluded that the DIR scheme should for the moment remain a voluntary one.

Dáil Éireann 511 Written Answers. Driving Instructor Register.

Questions

19991130