New Ros councillor calls for action on young drivers' wait for theory test

The newest and youngest member of Roscommon County Council, Emer Kelly, has highlighted "growing frustration" over the uncertainty around when theory tests for those seeking provisional drivers' licences will resume.

The 21-year-old from Ballyforan was formally co-opted onto the council, following the resignation of former councillor Ivan Connaughton, at a special meeting this morning (Tuesday).

She is calling on the Government to take immediate action on the theory test issue, saying she is aware of one teenager whose theory test had been rescheduled no fewer than six times.

"There are a number of individuals in their late teens and early twenties, waiting to sit their theory test for the past number of months. One particular teenager has been rescheduled six times, with still no clarification on a secure date," she said.

"Many teenagers and young adults tend to seek work in the agricultural sector during the summer months, working for local agricultural contractors and farmers.

"The delay in theory tests will result in loss of employment for these individuals, who would otherwise obtain insurance to drive tractors and machinery with the allocation of their provisional licence.

"This in turn will lead to increased financial strain on younger people saving for college and rent, impacting their mental health tremendously."

She added that the situation had the potential to impact local farmers and contractors across South Roscommon, with many under pressure to meet the demands of the summer and autumn months.

“It is nearing crisis point for many, with individuals feeling the negative impacts of the restrictions on physical and mental health. We need to reduce those burdens in any way possible.

"The reintroduction of theory tests now will result in increased opportunity for employment for teenagers and younger adults, decreased financial worry, and less strain on farmers and agricultural contractors.

"It is now the responsibility of the government to provide immediate guidance on when these tests will resume and how they will accommodate the large waiting lists," she concluded.