Crackdown on drivers repeatedly renewing learner permits

Up to 30,000 drivers are on their third or subsequent learner permit without sitting a test. Picture: PA

The Road Safety Authority has been told to tackle immediately the issue of drivers repeatedly renewing learner permits, as part of measures to address rising road fatality numbers.

Up to 30,000 drivers are on their third or subsequent learner permit without ever sitting a driving test. It means many have been on the roads for years without having their ability to drive tested.

In a letter sent last month by the Department of Transport on behalf of roads minister Jack Chambers, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) was told to have a full business plan for the second half of the year delivered to Government by the end of June.

Part of that must include measures to clamp down on drivers having multiple learner-permit renewals, said Keith Walsh, Department of Transport assistant secretary general.

Mr Chambers had previously indicated he would crack down on such drivers but said there must be a “lead-in time” to allow learners to comply with new rules.

Jack Chambers previously indicated he would crack down on drivers repeatedly renewing permits.  Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

However, the latest letter to the RSA has indicated the urgency of these measures.

“[The minister directs] that the implementation of the agreed proposals to address the multiple learner permit issue be immediately commenced [before the second half of the year] and be in place for the first tranche of drivers by year-end,” Mr Walsh wrote.

The department also said spending on education, media, and awareness campaigns should be increased by €3m between now and the end of June. 

“I appreciate this will likely have funding and staffing implications for the authority, which will be considered once received,” wrote Mr Walsh, but he said these actions “must commence immediately, and in full, using current resources.”