West Cork TD Michael Collins latest to call for license deal

Michael Collins TD, the leader of Independent Ireland, is the latest in a line of politicians to welcome proposals to allow a mutual driving licence recognition deal between Ireland and the United States, describing the current situation as “absurd”.

Joe O’Shea of CorkBeo.ie reports that Deputy Collins has been contacted by many constituents in West Cork with US-issued driving licences who are forced to sit a theory test and take a driving test, despite having as many as decades of experience of safe driving. The system has been widely reported as being under serious strain. The report continues:

“We already have months of backlogs for young Irish drivers trying to get their tests and get on the road—and here we are adding people from America, some with decades of experience, onto those same waiting lists,” he said. “It’s not fair, it’s not efficient, and it’s not sustainable.”

Deputy Collins said the issue is one of both common sense and fairness, and that the current policy fails to reflect the modern, connected world or the needs of returning Irish citizens.

“I’ll be seeking to meet with the group putting forward these proposals as soon as possible,” he said. “And I can confirm it will be one of the first items I raise when the Transport Committee convenes. It’s time this got sorted.”

He added that for areas like West Cork, which are heavily reliant on cars and where public transport options are limited, the issue is even more pressing.

“This is a practical issue with real consequences for people who live here, want to move home, or simply want to visit their families. We need to start treating Irish people abroad and their American family members with a bit of respect and common sense. I fully support this proposal.”

Read the full report on MSN.com: Cork TD backs US-Ireland driving licence swap