Tuesday 09 June 2015
Media Enquiry from Guernsey Press:
Following the news that there will be the introduction of a registry for driving instructors, can the department please answer the following questions?
-How many people have signed up for the voluntary registry so far?
-How long do people have to do this?
-Will the registry be published (the voluntary and eventual compulsory one)?
-When will a compulsory registry come into action?
-Why does the department think this is a good move? What will be the key benefits?
If you could please acknowledge receipt of this email and let me know when I can expect a response, it would be greatly appreciated.
Environment Department Response:
Thank you for your inquiry and questions regarding the Register of Driving Instructors. Responses to your questions are as follows:
How many people have signed up for the voluntary registry so far?
To date there have been 20 inquiries of which 6 applications have been received. In order to process an application it is necessary for candidates to meet with a representative of the Environment Department in order to complete the documents required for the criminal records check. This meeting takes about twenty minutes and must be arranged by appointment so inquiries will be at various stages of the application process.
How long do people have to do this?
There is no time limit on filing an application. Inquiries may be made at any time.
Will the registry be published (the voluntary and eventual compulsory one)?
It is the intention of the Department to make the names of those accepted onto the register available on the States web site and also to display registered instructors on a poster in the Department's offices. The Department will promote and recommend registered driving instructors.
When will a compulsory registry come into action?
Compulsory registration is dependent upon the introduction of specific legislation. This can be a lengthy process as it involves obtaining the approval of the Privy Council in the UK and it is unlikely that all the requirements will be in place before two or more years.
Why does the department think this is a good move? What will be the key benefits?
It has been the Department's contention for some time that it is self-evidently a good move. Registered instructors are required to undertake a criminal records check (if this is not satisfactory then registration will be refused) and to sign a code of conduct and good practice. Further, by the stipulations of the scheme they must present all learning drivers with their terms of instruction. This should provide new drivers, parents of those learning to drive and the general public with the confidence that their instructor has been properly checked, that the terms and costs of lessons are clear and that registered instructors have agreed to operate their businesses in accordance with stated standards. There are also assurances for the consumer in relation to advertising and transparency of contract terms.
All documents relating to registration may be found on the States web site at: http://www.gov.gg/drivinginstructors
Contact Information:
Chris Hurley, Director of Traffic and Environmental Services
Environment Department
Tel: 01481 243400
