asked the Minister for Local Government (a) what qualifications are necessary for appointment as driver tester, (b) the number of appointments made, and (c) the names and addresses of the persons appointed.

(a) Candidates for posts as driver tester must:

(i) have a good general education; and

(ii) have a satisfactory knowledge of the Rules of the Road, road procedures and the law relating to road traffic in so far as it concerns the driver of a mechanically propelled vehicle; and

(iii) have had satisfactory driving experience within the previous five years; and

(iv) have a general understanding of the working of mechanically propelled vehicles; and

(v) be capable of writing a good report;

(vi) (if called for the driving test) hold a driving licence valid on the day of the test; and

(vii) otherwise, possess the requisite knowledge and ability, and be suitable, to enter on the discharge of the duties of the position.

(b) 16 appointments have been made to date, and some further appointments will be made shortly.

(c) In view of the fact that all of the candidates selected for appointment have not yet taken up duty I do not propose to give their names at this stage.

I do not propose to give their addresses because I am not satisfied that it would be in the public interest to do so.