‘Ludicrous and ageist' - Plans to put drivers through mandatory medical tests slammed

Plans by the EU Greens to bring in mandatory medical exams for new drivers or anyone renewing their licence have been described as ‘ridiculous’ by one TD.

Fine Gael’s Colm Markey said that the proposal by a member of the parliament (MEP), who is a Green party leader, is “not only ridiculous” but that it would also introduce an “unnecessary layer of bureaucracy” to the process.

The proposed mandatory medical tests form part of a review on driving licence rules across the EU.

Midlands-North-West MEP Markey said he will oppose the plan when it comes before a full vote of the European Parliament in early 2024.

“Compelling individuals to undergo GP checks is not only burdensome, but would place an additional strain on our health service,” Mr Markey said.

“This proposal, which is being spearheaded by a Green MEP as lead negotiator, seems to be aimed at discouraging people to drive, rather than tackling road safety issues,” he added. 

The European Council and Commission agree that it should be up to individual member states to decide the issue but it got through the Committee stage in the Parliament by a single vote.

Mr Markey continued by branding the proposal “ludicrous and ageist” and said they were “sneaky tactics” used by the Green leader to discourage more people from getting on the road or renewing their licence, rather than for safety concerns.

“There are many positive aspects of the EU driving licence directive such as allowing 17-year-olds to begin driving trucks if accompanied by a professional driver, along with strict EU-wide rules around drink driving,” Mr Markey said.

“However, the whole package of measures is at risk of failing, due to a number of unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles being pushed by the Greens,” he concluded.