Learning to drive in Ireland involves several stages, each with associated costs. The bottom line is that the realistic cost is about €1,500 if you are lucky enough to have access to a parent or spouse’s car. It is a burden on young people who have plenty of other economic challenges. But it is also an important life skill, worth investing in, and no-one can disagree that a new driver should receive proper training.

Pat discusses this and more with Conor Faughnan, Transport commentator.