'L' drivers in Ireland who fail test will be banned from roads: Irish Transport Minister Jack Chambers

The Irish government plans to ban the renewal of learner's "L" plate licenses from time to time as part of a drive to tighten road safety.

Transport Minister Jack Chambers said the controversial issue was being dealt with. He explained that there have been cases of people who have failed their driving test up to 10 times and renewed their learner licences. Mr Chambers said:

“My department is committed to changing the permit renewal system to prevent unlimited renewals, increasing driver testing capacity for practical tests, reviewing driving training and the training curriculum to better prepare candidates for driving tests.” “Road safety is my priority over the issue of multiple learner's permits.

Huge rise in road deaths in Ireland As of April 2, 58 lives have been lost on the country's roads this year. 16 more people died than in the same period last year - an increase of 38%.

More than 2,630 people were caught speeding during garda checks this Bank Holiday weekend, despite ongoing awareness campaigns. Gardai said 177 people were also arrested for drink driving over the five days. 220 people were caught for using mobile phone while driving and 77 people for not wearing seat belt.

The minister confirmed that work has begun to address these changes. Irish media such as the Irish Mirror and Dublin Live are reporting that his team is working with the Road Safety Authority to manage learner permit renewals while increasing RSA testing capacity. Touching on the next steps, the Minister disclosed that the Department of Transport has started assessing legislative requirements and a dedicated RSA group is outlining the necessary technical and administrative arrangements.

"This proposal is expected to continue to be implemented while the driver test backlog is resolved," he concluded.