To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 22783/17-22, for his assessment of the impact on the economy and the number of trained drivers in the haulage sector should the changes being made in the rest of the UK regarding the HGV licensing process are not adopted in Northern Ireland.

I recognise the economic importance of trained drivers in delivering goods and vital supplies across Northern Ireland and of reported driver shortages in the haulage sector, however the issue of licensing of HGV drivers falls within the remit of the Department for Infrastructure.

I am encouraged that the DVA has taken steps to maximise both the number of test slots and examiners available and has been carrying out an increased number of LGV tests since reopening in April 2021.

I understand that DfI has no current plans to replicate the changes to the licensing process currently being undertaken in GB and to date, my Department has not been asked to carry out an assessment of that decision on the economy, or on the number of trained drivers in the haulage sector.

For my part, my Department continues to offer a fully funded Apprenticeship programme in Driving Goods Vehicles and I continue to proactively engage with the UK Government on its immigration policy with a view to ensuring that it reflects the needs of Northern Ireland’s economy.