435. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Transport whether any review is planned of the requirement for candidates to obtain a category C licence before presenting for a category CE driving test; and if he will outline any proposals under consideration. [61588/26]

436. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Transport whether a review has been undertaken of the pre-drive oral questioning requirements for candidates seeking categories C, CE and D licences; and if he will outline any plans to streamline or modernise these assessments. [61587/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 435 and 436 together.

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 questions to the Authority for direct response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.

Pending this response, the Deputy may wish to note that in the Phase 2 Action Plan 2025-2027 of the Government's Road Safety Strategy, Action 7A states that the RSA will lead to 'enhance the learning to drive programme based on evidence from international best practice, in tandem with improvements in the driving test'.

The objective of this work is to ensure the learning to drive programme is fit for purpose, future-proofed, and capable of adapting to advancements in vehicle technology while considering international best practice. The RSA will bring forward recommendations in relation to Action 7A in the coming months.