Sir, – I’m a sixth-year student doing the Leaving Cert Applied and got my full licence recently. I don’t drink. I abide by the rules of the road, and I always pay attention to speed limits, etc.
It is far too expensive for a young person to start driving.
The main reason I started my lessons is because my stepfather gave me a car as I work every summer with him and most weekends.
As a result of my hard work, I can afford to pay for my insurance, but there are a lot of people who are great drivers but who cannot afford to drive.
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Insurance costs from about €2,000 up to €5,000 for young drivers.
When I first started, I had to do a theory test, which cost €45. Following that I had to get my learner permit licence, which costs €35.
After that I had to pay for 12 lessons, which cost €50 a lesson, so for 12 lessons that adds up to €600. Then there is €85 for the driving test.
The cost of all this is €765 before you even get a car and insurance, which will be at least another €4,000 to €8,000.
I think young people, especially young males, get a really bad press.
It is time to give us a break! – Yours, etc,
RUARI FITZSIMONS,
Kilcullen,
Co Kildare.