Fianna Fail Senator Niall Blaney has welcomed the government’s commitment that a European Union proposal to force drivers aged over 70 years to re-do their tests, undergo refresher courses or medical tests will not be applied in Ireland.
The Senator had described the proposal as being “totally discriminatory against pensioners” and had voiced his strong opposition to any attempt to implement this “unnecessary and unfair blanket measure” to the Department of Transport.
“In reply to my deep concerns I received correspondence from the Minister of State for Transport Jack Chambers TD informing me that the Department has no plans at the present time to change the age at which an applicant for a driving licence in Ireland must supply a medical report and undertake a refresher course, which is currently set at 75 years of age,” he said.
Minister Chambers also confirmed to me in writing that “Drivers under 75 will not have to supply a medical report confirming their fitness to drive, unless they have an identified or specified illness or are required to do so by law. “
“I was also informed that the new EU directive is not mandatory for member states and that the current system in Ireland for older drivers will remain in place.
“I very much welcome the Government’s response to this proposal, and I very much hope that the current status quo is never altered,” the Senator said.
While the EU proposals are intended to improve road safety, the reality of implementing this directive is ageist and unfair, particularly against rural drivers in areas that have limited access to any alternative form of transport other than their own private motor cars, the Senator said.
“I very much believe in new innovative and progressive road safety measures,” Senator Blaney continued, “such as teaching of driver theory to school children.” and additional investment in local road improvements,” he said.
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