EU Directives
Dail Éireann — 2026-05-26
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Kieran O'Donnell (FG), Limerick City

I again thank the Deputy for raising this matter, which I am taking on behalf of the Minister for Transport, Deputy O'Brien. The legal basis for the certificate of professional competence for professional drivers is contained in EU Directive 2022/2561 on the initial qualification and periodic training of drivers of certain road vehicles for the carriage of goods or passengers. Under this directive it is a legal requirement that all new category C and D professional drivers complete and pass their driver CPC qualification and undertake periodic training.
CPC is mutually recognised across all EU member states allowing drivers to work in different EU member states without gaining additional certification. Periodic training further ensures that professional drivers remain informed of developments in road safety legislation, including in technology, regulatory obligations and best practice within the transport sector. The continued professional development model underpinning driver CPC recognises the importance of professional driver safety, requiring ongoing complex regulatory oversight. Both the duration of the training and the subjects to be covered are specified under the directive on mandatory professional drivers operating in EU member states.
The RSA is responsible for creating a curriculum in line with the directive in Ireland. The RSA undertakes periodic review of the training modules to ensure that they fully meet the requirements of the directive and represent best practice in terms of training requirements. The overarching purpose of qualification and periodic training process required by the directive is to ensure road safety and the safety of drivers. It ensures drivers can navigate adverse conditions, operate complex equipment and ensure passenger safety and cargo collection. It allows harmonisation of professional driver standards across the EU, enhancing road safety and professional mobility.
I know Deputy Nolan raised a specific point in her contribution. Obviously, it will be brought to the Minister's attention. I expect she may have already done so or will be doing it but the specific point she raised could be taken up directly with the Minister, Deputy O’Brien.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-05-26/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-09-14T01:01:04+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-05-26