17/01/2026
Government refusal to maintain roads causing driving test failures and endangering all road users
Independent Ireland leader and Cork South-West TD Deputy Michael Collins has criticised the Government’s continued failure to properly maintain the national and regional road network, warning that deteriorating road conditions are placing all road users at risk, not just learner drivers.
Recent coverage has highlighted how badly faded road markings and poor surface conditions are contributing to learner drivers failing their driving tests through no fault of their own. In some cases, basic markings such as stop lines and lane indicators are so worn they are effectively invisible. Deputy Collins said this represents a basic failure of the State to meet minimum road safety standards.
The problem is being made worse by lengthy delays in accessing driving tests, with many learners waiting months for an appointment. As a result, people who are ready to progress to a full licence are left in limbo, facing additional costs and uncertainty, and in some cases being penalised because of infrastructure failures that are entirely outside their control.
Deputy Collins said the issue goes far beyond the driving test system.
“This is not just about learner drivers and test results. When road markings are worn away and surfaces are left to deteriorate, it creates confusion and danger for every single person using those roads. Families commuting, older drivers, cyclists, motorcyclists and emergency services are all put at risk by the Government’s refusal to prioritise basic maintenance,” he said.
He pointed to the long-standing lack of investment in West Cork’s regional road network, where many routes have been allowed to fall into poor condition despite repeated representations. Deputy Collins said communities in rural areas are once again being left behind, with substandard roads undermining safety, accessibility and economic activity.
“In West Cork, people are expected to use roads every day that are riddled with potholes, poorly drained and badly marked. These are not minor issues. They affect road safety, journey times and quality of life. The same Government that talks endlessly about road safety is failing to carry out the most basic work required to keep roads safe,” he said.
Deputy Collins said there is an urgent need for a change in approach, with proper and sustained investment in road maintenance alongside meaningful action to clear the driving test backlog.
“Road safety cannot be reduced to slogans or enforcement alone. If the State cannot even ensure that road markings are visible and surfaces are safe, then it is failing in its duty of care. People should not be failing driving tests, or risking their lives on a daily basis, because the Government will not do the basics,” he concluded.
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